An artificial intelligence-based traffic light system has been installed at the Punta Prima roundabout on the N-332, between Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa. The Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility says the €357,534 project, funded through the EU Recovery Plan, is the first roundabout in Spain to use this technology.

The scheme includes traffic lights at all approaches, cameras and traffic data sensors, and an AI control system that automatically adjusts signal timings according to real traffic flow. The ministry says the aim is to improve traffic management and lay the groundwork for smarter systems across the State Road Network.

However, since becoming operational, the roundabout has seen congestion and confusion, particularly at peak times. Drivers have reported long queues, especially from Avenida de las Olas and Calle Escorpiones, and some motorists have ignored red lights out of frustration.

The system prioritises traffic on the N-332, which regularly sees tailbacks of several hundred metres. Around 45,000 vehicles use the junction ежедневно on average. Authorities say the technology will improve as it learns from traffic patterns, but questions remain about how it will cope during the busy summer season.