Las Burras Beach, Gran Canaria – In the early hours of Friday, dozens of exhausted migrants arrived in a wooden boat on the shores of Spain's Canary Islands, marking a sharp rise in perilous crossings from Africa. Emergency personnel and a few stunned beachgoers rushed to their aid.

The boat, carrying 64 individuals, reached Las Burras beach on Gran Canaria under its own power, according to local authorities. Eleven migrants were subsequently taken to hospitals, some via helicopter, with four reported to be in critical condition.

Dramatic Increase in Migrant Arrivals

The number of migrants arriving irregularly by sea to the Canary Islands soared by 160% between January and July 15 compared to the previous year, totaling almost 20,000 people, as reported by Spain's interior ministry. Overall sea arrivals to Spain, including mainland landings, increased by 88% to approximately 25,300 individuals.

Humanitarian Response on the Beach

Upon arrival at the beach, lined with hotels, many migrants collapsed on the sand, visibly frail and exhausted. Some struggled to walk, with one individual lying flat and almost motionless. Emergency personnel provided yellow foil blankets to the migrants, while others were placed on stretchers. A poignant scene unfolded as a police officer cradled a baby in his arms, standing beside a woman being attended by medics.

Beachgoers, including children, watched the scene unfold, with one tourist offering her water bottle to a migrant.

Fastest-Growing Migration Route in Europe

The route from Africa to the Canary Islands has become the fastest-growing migration route in Europe. Irregular crossings have surged by 303% from January to May compared to the same period last year, according to the European border control agency Frontex.

The dramatic increase in migrant arrivals to Spain's Canary Islands underscores the urgent need for a coordinated response to this growing humanitarian crisis. The sight of frail and exhausted individuals on Gran Canaria's beaches serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by those seeking a better life.