The Espartales sports pavilion in Alcalá de Henares continues to function as a reception center for 53 people from Zarzalejo, whose return home is pending the evolution of the forest fire affecting the southwest of the Community of Madrid. This news follows the confirmation of the safe return of residents from Cenicientos, a municipality that had also been evacuated.
The facility, with a capacity for 200 people, was rapidly set up after a request for support from the Community of Madrid. The pavilion was adapted to offer accommodation, food, healthcare, and social assistance, with separate areas for families, people with reduced mobility, and a children's zone.
Coordination has been constant among municipal services such as Civil Protection, Local Police, National Police, SUMMA 112, Red Cross, municipal workers, social entities, and volunteers. The deputy mayor, Isabel Ruiz Maldonado, positively assessed the return of the Cenicientos residents and assured that municipal resources will remain available to the command center to assist the residents of Zarzalejo.
The Alcalá de Henares City Council emphasizes that the operation will remain active as long as necessary, prepared for any changes in the fire's evolution. Citizen solidarity has also been highlighted, with numerous residents offering their collaboration.
