High Security For Zionist Congress; Schwingen Fest Draws Big Crowds; Government Contemplates More Traffic Reduction

News For 30 August 2022

125 years ago, Stadtcasino Basel was the host to the first International Zionist Congress, laying the groundwork for the founding of the modern state of Israel.  To commemorate the event, the Stadtcasino is the center of the celebrations which started on Sunday and is expected to host approximately 1,200 participants from around the world, including Isaac Herzog, president of the state of Israel. Due to the controversial nature of the event, extra security including 700 police and army personnel have cordoned off the area around the Stadtcasino.

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Last weekend, in addition to the snarled traffic associated with the heightened security for the International Zionist Congress in the city center, Pratteln, Basel's next door suburb also played host to the 2022 Federal Wrestling and Alpine Festival - more simply known as Schwingenfest.  The three day festival drew crowds of thousands and was simulcast live in Basel's Barfüsserplatz. In addition to Swiss style wrestling, spectators could see other unique competitive sports on display like Hornussen and Stone Throwing.

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In its endless battle against growing motorised traffic in the city, the Basel Stadt government is evaluating a new proposal called "Future Initiative".  If approved, the initiative would rezone an additional 140,000 square meters of city roadway for non-motorized traffic like pedestrians, bicycles and public transport.  In addition, 1000 new trees would be planted on public thoroughfares by the year 2033.  The combined effect of trees and removed roads would add the equivalent of 68 football pitches or nearly half a million square meters of space to non-motorized private traffic within 10 years.