Lienz is upgrading: New security measures against truck terrorist attacks!

Lienz is upgrading: New security measures against truck terrorist attacks!

At a local council meeting on September 9, 2025, the city of Lienz intensively discussed security measures to protect itself from possible terrorist attacks, especially from trucks. The discussion was triggered by the frightening attack in Magdeburg in December 2024. The Lienz district administration called for proposals to secure events on the main square, which makes the city responsible for finding appropriate technical solutions.

The agreement in the local council was that the police are responsible for general security, while the city must take care of the technical security measures. A key point of the discussion was the testing of various barriers, with the aspects of costs and maintenance also being at the forefront. Retractable bollards were deemed impractical as they would require additional technology such as traffic lights.

Preferred solutions and costs

The council identified flexible protective barriers as the preferred option. In this context, three variants from different manufacturers were examined, with the Armis system from the Swiss Consel Group being favored. This system consists of two mobile vehicle barriers, the Armis GO and Armis ONE, which can be used together. The total cost for four elements of both types is 93,214 euros. The barriers can be installed in just 15 minutes, allowing for high flexibility in use.

The systems will not only be used on the main square, but also at other events. Mayor Elisabeth Blanik pointed out that she would like to clarify whether the barriers are available in the city's trendy color “sunny yellow”. A topic that will be put back to the vote after all technical, financial and aesthetic aspects have been clarified. Regional municipalities and state authorities are also offered the opportunity to share costs in order to spread the financial burden.

Mobility and security

The importance of events such as city festivals, Christmas markets, concerts and major sporting events for cultural diversity is often emphasized. Safety and protection of visitors are essential. Negative examples have increased in recent years, which is why the implementation of mobile vehicle barriers has increasingly come into focus. These systems, which are also certified, offer effective physical protection against unauthorized vehicle access and help meet legal requirements for security concepts.

Important access routes are still maintained through targeted access routes for rescue workers, while the vehicle barriers also deter potential perpetrators. The providers of mobile vehicle barriers, such as the companies specializing in Köstner and Zufahrtssperre.de, also offer comprehensive services - from advice and training to tailor-made logistics for installing the systems.