Repair work on the AP-7 motorway tunnel located in Pilar de la Horadada is expected to take just two weeks, a significant reduction from the previous estimate of two months. This comes after damage was inflicted on the tunnel following a fatal truck crash on May ninth, which resulted in a fire and the unfortunate death of the driver. Currently, traffic is being directed to the N-332, which runs parallel to the damaged motorway stretch.

A spokesperson for AUSUR, the concessionary managing the AP-7, suggested that the repairs, which will continue for at least the next week or two, are unlikely to extend for the previously suggested period. The ongoing work is essential due to the collision, which damaged multiple components within the tunnel, including lighting and communication circuits, prompting traffic concerns as the busy summer season approaches.

Further adding to the situation, the Ministry of Transport had intended to initiate an additional improvements project on May twenty-fifth. This project aims to modernise the tunnel’s lighting and security systems for enhanced safety and energy efficiency. However, following the recent accident, this project has been postponed until September to avoid exacerbating the current traffic challenges.

The AP-7, while free to use in certain regions, imposes tolls on users, making it a financially significant route. The safety and efficiency upgrades are being funded by the European Union, although AUSUR is responsible for managing this portion of the motorway. As repairs progress, drivers should remain alert to changes in traffic flow and updates on the restoration timeline.