The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has announced a special traffic operation to manage the expected 7.5 million long-distance road trips during the Santiago holiday weekend.
This operation commenced at 3.00 pm on Wednesday, July 24, and conclude at midnight on Sunday, July 28.
Regional holiday in five autonomous communities
Thursday, July 25, is a public holiday in Cantabria, Galicia, Madrid, Navarra, and the Basque Country. This period coincides with the beginning, end, and short-term breaks for many travellers.
Key points for road users
The DGT emphasises caution on conventional roads, short trips, and increased presence of motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Adhering to traffic rules is crucial to reducing accidents.
Traffic challenges and management
Traffic congestion is expected, particularly on Wednesday afternoon/evening and Thursday morning, around major cities and primary routes. The DGT has planned several measures to manage traffic flow:
- Installation of reversible and additional lanes with cones and signaling during peak hours.
- Recommendations for alternative routes based on origin and destination.
- Suspension of roadworks.
- Limitation of sporting events and other activities occupying the roads.
- Restrictions on the movement of trucks, especially those carrying dangerous goods, on certain roads, dates, and times.
Extensive resources deployed
The DGT will utilise its full range of human and technical resources, including:
- Guardia Civil Traffic Division officers.
- Traffic Management Centre staff.
- Helicopter patrols.
- Maintenance and equipment installation teams.
- Fixed and mobile speed cameras, helicopters, drones, and cameras to monitor mobile phone use and seatbelt compliance.
Real-time traffic information
Travellers can access real-time traffic updates and information on the DGT website. Updates are also available via Twitter accounts @informacionDGT and @DGTes, radio and TV bulletins, and by calling 011.
Increased risks during summer
The DGT highlights that summer traffic conditions include:
- Increased traffic on secondary roads.
- More motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
- Congestion on roads leading to coastal and tourist areas.
- Numerous local festivals.
- Higher frequency of night travel.
- Greater presence of foreign-registered vehicles heading to tourist areas and borders with Portugal and the Maghreb.
Given these factors, the DGT reiterates that caution and adherence to traffic rules are vital for reducing road accidents. Since July 1, there have been 77 traffic fatalities.
Stay safe on the roads
Drivers are urged to stay informed, plan their journeys, and exercise prudence to ensure a safe holiday period for all road users.
Also read: Celebrating St James´ Day