The section of the AP-7 was closed on January 21, the day after the tragic Rodalies train accident in Gelida, which claimed the life of a young trainee driver. The closure, from the former Martorell toll booth to the Sant Sadurní d'Anoia exit, was decided due to the risk of collapse and to allow reinforcement work on the embankment beneath the motorway.
The reopening at dawn is justified for safety reasons, as traffic drops considerably, allowing for a quicker and safer removal of signaling elements.
The director of the Catalan Traffic Service, Ramon Lamiel, explained that the early morning schedule was chosen for safety reasons. During this period, the significant drop in traffic facilitates the removal of cones, Jersey barriers, and the repainting of lanes, necessary tasks to restore normalcy.
Lamiel also highlighted the positive response to the alternative traffic diversion plans. During the restriction period, the use of the C-15 and A-2 was advised, and tolls were lifted on the C-32, the Garraf motorway, which saw a multiplied volume of vehicles.
