Rotterdam welcomed the New Year with its usual festivities, but the holiday was marred by multiple incidents across the city. On January 1, emergency services were busy responding to several medical emergencies as well as fire and other accidents, highlighting the sometimes perilous circumstances surrounding holiday celebrations.
Among the locations requiring swift medical assistance was Dordtselaan, where at 3:39 AM, an ambulance was dispatched following serious health concerns. Just over an hour later, at 4:50 AM, another emergency call was placed for Vlissingenplein. Similar ambulance runs occurred throughout the early morning, with incidents reported at Rietdekkerweg at 4:28 AM, followed by Airportplein at 2:31 AM and Vlielanderstraat at 3:48 AM. Each call was raised via the P2000 emergency notification system utilized by the 112 safety region Rotterdam-Rijnmond.
Meanwhile, the night transitioned from New Year’s Eve excitement to emergency response as fire engulfed a building at Molecatensingel. Despite the prompt action, the extent of damages and any resultant injuries remained unclear, pending investigation.
Fires were not the only danger, as the community faced the tragic news of a kitesurfer’s death at Maasvlakte on the holiday. The circumstances remain unclear, but local emergency services responded, attempting resuscitation, though sadly, their efforts proved insufficient.
Meanwhile, ensuring safety was also on the agenda. An explosion on Charloisse Hoofd damaged property late on New Year’s Eve, thankfully leaving the resident unharmed. Authorities quickly launched investigations to determine the cause, speculating on potential gas leaks.
Train services were also affected by New Year’s disruptions. Following an accident on the tracks resulting from collision under investigate, train travel between Delft and Schiedam Centrum saw significant delays early on January 1, with service disruptions lasting until around 7:30 AM according to NS, the national railway service.
Competing with the chaos, the New Year’s fireworks were executed on December 31 as planned, capturing the attention of thousands. Many gathered around the Erasmusbrug to witness the vibrant displays as midnight struck, marking the arrival of 2025. The sentiments shared were mixed with new memories made amid the excitement, though later marred by unfortunate events.
Reflecting upon New Year traditions, organizers announced the cancellation of the annual New Year’s dip at Zevenhuizerplas due to unfavorable weather conditions. Participants had hoped to continue the time-honored practice, but safety prevailed as organizers opted for caution.
Through the haze of celebrations and fears, Rotterdam marked the New Year, displaying resilience. While healthcare services and emergency services remained on high alert throughout the festivities, the reflection on joy accompanied by shadows of tragedy offered both community solidarity and stark realities often faced during major public celebrations.