The decision to completely close southbound traffic near Martorell comes after the collapse of a motorway retaining wall caused the R4 train accident in Gelida this Tuesday. This restriction, expected to last for days, is being implemented as a precaution due to the alert of «possible instability» of the slope.
“"The collapsed wall is currently resting on the crashed train, and it will be necessary to assess how this slope behaves once the carriage is removed."
Currently, one lane of the motorway, the one closest to the wall, is already closed, but the Fire Department assures that the rest of the road is «suitable for traffic». Nevertheless, they have requested a «joint assessment» of the situation from the Ministry of Transport and Adif to ensure infrastructure safety.
The director of the Servei Català de Trànsit (Catalan Traffic Service), Ramon Lamiel, announced that drivers will be informed about alternative routes. The restriction is calculated to affect approximately 120,000 vehicles and 25,000 heavy vehicles that usually travel through this section.
“"The most feasible option is to take the A-2 to Igualada and descend via the C-15 because it is a route with good performance."
Alternative routes suggested by Trànsit include using the A-2, C-15, C-25 (to reach the center of the peninsula from Cassà de la Selva), C-58, B-40, C-32 (along the coast), and B-42 (in the pre-coastal area). Drivers will be able to rejoin the AP-7 near Vilafranca del Penedès.
