by Germany: Traffic restrictions on the Norderelbe Bridge on the A1
As part of the expansion of the A1, work has begun on the new Norderelbe Bridge, which is to connect Hamburg-Wilhelmsburg with Rothenburgsort. Its construction is scheduled to be completed in 2029-2030, but in the meantime it is necessary to ensure the safety and stability of the existing bridge. For this reason, the Norderelbe Bridge will be completely closed for several days from 14 March.
Traffic restrictions on the Norderelbe Bridge
To relieve the most important elements of the bridge, including the supports and lanes, traffic organization will be changes as follows:
➡️ Existing road markings will be moved to the left in order to relieve the outermost lane, the service path and the barriers;
➡️ a 60 km/h speed limit, especially for trucks, will be imposed in order to protect the bridge structure;
➡️ an overtaking ban for trucks and an obligation to maintain a distance of 50 meters between vehicles, even in the event of traffic jams.
➡️ speed and distance will be constantly monitored.
Despite these restrictions, vehicles transporting abnormal loads can still pass across the bridge provided such journeys have been previously registrated and approved.
Changes in traffic organization on the A1 in Hamburg
Additional measures have been introduced to ensure the smooth flow of HGV traffic, including:
➡️ an overtaking ban on the A1 will be extended from the HH-Harburg junction (38) to the HH-Moorfleet junction (34) beyond the Norderelbe bridge,
➡️ The road connecting A255 RiFa Süd with the A1 RiFa Lübeck at the Norderelbe triangle will be closed to vehicles with a GVW over 7.5 tonnes which will be diverted via the HH-Harburg junction (38).
The bridge will be completely closed in both directions over the weekend:
➡️ from 10:00 p.m. on Friday, March 14, to 5:00 a.m. on Monday, March 17,
Diversions:
➡️ Southbound traffic: from the HH-Billstedt junction (33) via the B5, B75 and A255 to the A1 (diversion U26).
➡️ northbound traffic: from the Norderelbe junction (36) via the A255, B75 and B5 to the HH-Billstedt junction (33) (diversion U85).
➡️ Diversions for drivers heading towards the B75: via the A255, B75 and B5 to the HH-Billstedt junction (33).
➡️ For drivers heading for Bremen: Exit at the HH-Südost junction (1), towards Lübeck and then diversion via the HH-Billstedt junction (33).
Further work and closures in 2025
More closures and maintenance works are planned on the Norderelbe bridge in the future, including:
➡️ 25-28 April: closure of RiFa-Nord to replace temporary structures.
➡️ 9-12 May: asphalt renovation on the Norderelbe Bridge.
➡️ 23-26 May: closure of RiFa Süd, replacement of temporary structures.
The progress of work on the Norderelbe Bridge largely depends on the weather. If the work cannot be completed in March, an alternative weekend will be scheduled. In this case, the work will be carried out from 10 p.m. on April 11 to 5 a.m. on April 14.
by Changes on the Paris ring road, A1 and A13 – a special lane and an HGV driving ban
Since March 3, a a special lane has been added to the Paris ring road and sections of the A1 and A13 motorways. The lane is designated for vehicles with at least two people on board, for public transport and taxis ad cannot be used by vehicles with a GVW over 3.5 t transporting good.
Where and when does the new lane apply?
Since March 3, 2025, the left lane of a section of the Paris ring road and a section of the A1 and A13 motorways has been designated for public transport and mass transport vehicles. Initially, the lane is located along the section between quai d’Issy and porte de Bercy, which runs through the northern part of Paris (in both directions). In the next phase, this traffic organisation will be extended to the entire ring road. The use of the left lane on selected routes is a pilot project. The first evaluation of its effectiveness will take place in September and December 2025, and then in March 2026.
The left lane designated for public transport and mass transport is activated from Monday to Friday during the following hours (with the exception of weekends and public holidays):
➡️ 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
➡️ 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
During these periods, the lane can only be used by:
➡️ vehicles with at least 2 people on board.
➡️ Public transport (buses, coaches and vehicles transporting children to school).
➡️ Taxis.
➡️ VTC vehicles (carrying at least one customer).
➡️ Emergency and security service vehicles, including private ambulances.
➡️ Motorcycles and scooters (when driving between lanes or with a passenger).
➡️ Vehicles of disabled people if their users have a mobility card (CMI) or a European parking card. In this case, prior registration in the Handi’Stat system is necessary to avoid a fine.
Vehicles with a GVW over 3.5 t carrying goods are NOT allowed to use this lane when this traffic organisation is in effect.
How to recognize the special lane?
The lane is marked with a square sign featuring a white rhombus. When the sign is illuminated, the lane can only be used by vehicles of public and mass transport; when the sign is off, the lane can be used by all vehicles. In addition, the lane can be temporarily closed by the police prefecture in the event of road accidents, emergency situations, days with exceptionally low traffic. Drivers will also be informed whether the special lane is in use by VMS panels placed along the road.
What are the penalties for violating the driving ban?
For the first two months (March-April 2025), i.e. the transitional period, if the system detects a vehicle with a single occupant, it will display a warning message on the VMS panels, but the driver will not be fined. Starting from May, drivers who fail to comply with the ban will face a fine of €135. Compliance will be monitored by a computer-assisted camera system that can identify vehicle type (e.g. taxi, bus), count passengers from the front and from the back of the vehicle, and recognise license plates. Camera footage will be analysed by authorised officers, who will ultimately decide whether a breach has occurred and whether a fine should be issued.
by Drivers work schedule – which one really pays off? The answer is not obvious
Every professional driver knows that the work schedule is a key aspect of everyday functioning. In addition to having an impact on the earnings, it also affects the driver’s health, family life and overall work satisfaction. Drivers’ preferences vary opinions, which is why we decided to ask them: which work schedule is the best? The results of our survey involving 273 respondents show that the answer is not straightforward.
The survey included questions concerning:
1. Preferred work schedule
2. Factors that determining the choice of a particular work schedule
3. The pros and cons of different work schedules.
The most popular work schedules
The 2/2 schedule turned out to be the most popular schedule and was chosen by as many as 108 respondents. The next most popular option is 2/1 (60 respondents), followed by 3/1 (13 respondents), 4/2 (12 respondents) and 3/2 (11 respondents).
Other schedule options included 4/1, 6/2, 8/2 and 4/2.
The survey indicates that most drivers prefer three work schedules:
✅ 2/2 schedule (2 weeks of work, 2 weeks off) – chosen by 108 respondents
While it was the most popular schedule system, it is not free from disadvantages, but more on that in a moment. The 2/2 schedule is particularly favoured by drivers with families who value the possibility of returning home regularly. It provides an ideal balance between work and private life. During two weeks off, drivers can fully regenerate, take care of their health, spend time with their loved ones and take their time (!) catching up with things that had accumulated while they were aways. In addition, this schedule reduces the risk of burnout, which is crucial from the perspective of road safety.
However, this schedule has its drawbacks. The main one are lower earnings: shorter working hours per month mean lower pay compared to other work schedules. Additionally, not every company offers this option, and if they do, it is often only available on selected routes. After a two-week break, some drivers may have difficulty returning to their work routine, which can be frustrating.
✅ The 2/1 schedule (2 weeks of work, 1 week off): selected by 13 respondents
The 2/1 schedule is a solution that is considered to a perfect tradeoff between earnings and time spent with the family. Compared to the 2/2 schedule, it tends to be associated with higher earnings, as more days of work per month result in higher wages. Despite shorter breaks, drivers appreciate more frequent returns home. A constant work rhythm has its advantages – a week of rest is usually sufficient to regenerate. But sometimes, after two weeks of intensive driving, one (sometimes incomplete) week off may not be enough to recharge the batteries. Drivers note that in practice this system can be demanding on family life.
✅ The 3/1 schedule (3 weeks on, 1 week off): selected by 12 respondents
This main advantage of this schedule are higher earnings: the more time spent on the road, the higher the pay, which is the most important point in favour of this solution for many drivers. Some prefer longer trips because they are less stressed about returning quickly and planning their rest. But this also comes at a price – for drivers with families, long separations can be difficult, and a week off after three weeks of work is often not enough to fully regenerate. Also, many drivers are aware of the risk of burnout.
Drivers comments
To illustrate these general results, we provide the most frequently repeated opinions, as well as those reported by individual drivers, as well as important issues related to structural problems in the transport industry.
Most frequently repeated answers:
◾ ”More often at home for longer” – many drivers emphasized that regular and longer stays at home enable them to rest and spend time with their families.
◾ ”The right work-life balance” – drivers pointed out that particular schedules (e.g. 2/1) give them a chance to rest and function normally off the road.
◾ ”Less fatigue”
◾ ”Better quality of life”
Answers that appeared only once:
◾ ”Driving only at night – fewer traffic jams and less stress on the route”
◾ ”Only short routes because I don’t want to sleep in the cabin”
◾ ”I don’t have a family, so I prefer longer routes and higher earnings”
◾ ”The longer I’m on the road, the better, because I don’t like sitting at home”
◾ ”Flexible hours, no rigid schedule”
Drivers problems
◾ Lack of suitable parking spaces: the lack of safe and well-equipped parking lots is a big problem, especially for drivers on international routes.
◾ Pressure to break the rules: despite increasingly stringent regulations, drivers still feel the pressure to exceed working time standards.
◾ The impact of work on private life: long trips and an irregular lifestyle often lead to family problems and even divorce.
So which schedule is the best?
There is no ideal work schedule – it all depends on your priorities. The 2/2 schedule is preferred for its optimum work-life balance – drivers emphasize that the even split between time spent at work and free time results in better professional efficiency and stronger family ties. The 2/1 schedule, while offering less time to regenerate, is associated with higher wages, which makes it an attractive choice for those who want to earn more without sacrificing their leisure time too much. For many drivers, however, the most valuable and desirable solution is the possibility of returning home every day, which guarantees stability.
As already noted, each of the most popular schedules has its drawbacks. Less balanced schedules, such as 3/1 or 4/1, despite higher wages, mean long-term separation from the damily, fatigue and mental strain. The possibility of daily returns, while ensuring stability, is associated with lower wages compared to what drivers can earn on international routes. Additionally, some drivers indicate that the 2/2 schedule – despite its undeniable advantages – may be less attractive financially compared to the 2/1 model.
The survey clearly shows that drivers are no longer satisfied only with high wages and that mental comfort and time to rest are also important. Employers who understand this can better tailor their work conditions to their needs. The results of the study provide valuable inisghts for transport companies and for drivers, who want to choose the schedule that best works for them.
More job offers than applicants – the job market in 2024
In 2024, the job market for drivers was full of opportunities, but also challenges. Our website section dedicated to employment opportunities job etransport.pl , featured 3,026 ads from drivers looking for work, while employers posted as many as 7,380 offers for drivers. In other words, the demand for drivers continued to exceeds the number of available applicants. In addition, we posted 8,609 ads for positions of dispatchers, freight forwarders or carriers, which shows that the transport industry is developing in various directions. 292 of all offers were sponsored ads (ads for drivers and offers of cooperation for carriers).
All these numbers reflect an continuing demand for drivers and the dynamically changing market that tries to respond to various needs. A flexible approach to organizing working time not only improves drivers’ quality of life, but can also bring benefits to transport companies by helping them maintain the loyalty and satisfaction of their employees.
by Belgium: renovation of the Liefkenshoek Tunnel
Drivers travelling through Belgium must prepare for disruptions in the Liefkenshoek Tunnel related to regular maintenance and renovation work.
As a result, only one lane will be available in each direction. In addition, vehicles wider than 3.5 metres will be prohibited from entering the tunnel. The work will be carried out on the following dates:
7 February (9:00 p.m.) – 10 February (5:00 a.m.)
21 February (9:00 PM) – 24 February (5:00 AM)
28 February (9:00 PM) – 3 March (5:00 AM)
Regular tunnel maintenance will be carried out according to the following schedule:
✅ On Thursdays, the tunnel shaft towards Beveren will be closed.
✅ On Fridays, the shaft towards Stabroek will be closed.
Each tunnel closure is in effect from 9 PM until 5 AM the following morning. Drivers should familiarize themselves with the diversion routes in advance and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Detour routes available ➡ HERE
by From midnight, a strike in Calais and a complete halt of operations at the port.
Trade unions at the French port of Calais have announced a “dead port” day for Thursday, 27 February. The protest, organized by the CGT union, is set to completely paralyze both freight and passenger traffic between 00:00 and 18:00. The strike is a response to the lack of agreement with the government regarding pension reform for port workers.
According to French media, during the protest, no vessels carrying passengers, private vehicles, buses, or goods will operate. For drivers, this means significant disruptions and the need to seek alternative routes. Union representatives emphasize that their goal is not to paralyze transportation but to fight for better working conditions for port workers, who perform physically demanding work every day.
The CGT is advocating for extending the early retirement option from four to five years before the statutory retirement age. Another demand is the recognition of asbestos exposure as grounds for early retirement. The Calais port employs 550 people, and indications suggest that the situation will not be resolved quickly.
If the government does not engage in negotiations, the unions plan further protests in March, including overtime work stoppages and four-hour work breaks on 4, 6, 10, 12, 14, 24, 26, and 28 March. Particularly disruptive could be the planned 72-hour strike on 18, 19, and 20 March, which will include a complete halt of port operations on 18 March.
Réforme des retraites : la CGT ports et docks annonce une intense série de grèves en mars.
Parfait elle aura réssi à tuer nos ports en 40 ans.Source : Le marin
https://t.co/z1o48loFmD
by [RUS/UA] Каталония вводит специальные ограничения для грузовиков с полуприцепами типа мега и дуо-трейлер
17 февраля в Официальном вестнике этого автономного сообщества были опубликованы сведения об ограничениях для грузовых автомобилей в Каталонии. Нововведения включают конкретные ограничения для транспортных средств с полуприцепами типа «мега» и «дуо», а также отмену постоянных ограничений на всех дорогах, где возникают трудности с управлением движением, за исключением дороги C-153 в городе Олот. Также был расширен список транспортных средств, освобожденных от данных ограничений.
В определённые дни, например на Пасху, ограничения действуют на большем количестве дорог. На автомагистрали AP-7 запланированы ограничения, в частности в выходные дни с 30 мая по 1 июня в связи с проведением мотоциклетных гонок в Монтмело; в праздник Святого Иоанна во время «длинных выходных» 24 июня и в понедельник 8 декабря.
Запрет на движение автопоездов с двумя прицепами
Движение автопоездов с двумя прицепами в общем порядке запрещено в праздничные дни, выходные, по пятницам во второй половине дня и в вечера накануне праздников. По пятницам после обеда и в преддверии праздников запрет действует с 15:00 до 24:00. Дополнительно указано, что транспортные средства, имеющие разрешение на движение с двойным прицепом, всегда должны двигаться по правой полосе и не имеют права обгонять.
Летний период (с 16 июня по 11 сентября).
По воскресеньям и праздничным дням грузовики типа «мега» и автопоезда с двумя прицепами не могут ездить по основным дорогам, ведущим к побережью Коста-Брава: C-253, C-35, C-63, GI-681 и GI-682. Однако в этом году движение по этим маршрутам разрешено для других видов грузовых автомобилей.
Ограничения и движение по правой полосе на AP-7, A-2 и дорогах с дополнительной полосой движения:
– При действии ограничений, указанных ниже, грузовые автомобили и автобусы с допустимой максимальной массой (DMC) равной или превышающей 7500 кг должны соблюдать максимальную скорость 80 км/ч.
– Транспортные средства, разрешённые к движению с двумя прицепами, всегда должны двигаться по правой полосе и не имеют права на обгон.
– Каждую пятницу и воскресенье во второй половине дня (с 17:00 до 22:00), а также в субботу утром (с 10:00 до 14:00) грузовые автомобили и автобусы с DMC ≥ 7500 кг должны использовать правую полосу автомагистрали AP-7 между Сан-Селони (км 111) и Вилафранка-дель-Пенедес (км 200) в обоих направлениях.
– Ограничения действуют в следующие дни:
• Страстная неделя: Великий четверг, 17.04: с 17:00 до 22:00; Великая пятница, 18.04: с 10:00 до 14:00; Пасхальный понедельник, 21.04: с 17:00 до 22:00
• 1 мая (четверг): с 17:00 до 22:00
• Пятница перед Пятидесятницей, 6.06: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Суббота, 7.06: с 10:00 до 14:00
• Понедельник, 9.06: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Праздник Святого Иоанна: Понедельник, 23.06: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Вторник, 24.06: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Национальный день Каталонии, четверг, 9.11: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Непорочное зачатие Пресвятой Девы Марии, пятница, 5.12: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Воскресенье, 7.12: с 17:00 до 22:00
• Понедельник, 8.12: с 17:00 до 22:00
– Каждое воскресенье с 5.01 по 13.04 и с 7.12 по 28.12 во второй половине дня (с 17:00 до 22:00) грузовые автомобили и автобусы с DMC ≥ 7500 кг должны использовать правую полосу автомагистрали A-2 между Игуада (км 550) и Марторель (км 586) в направлении Барселоны.
– Дороги с дополнительной полосой движения в обратном направлении:
Дополнительной полосой могут пользоваться только легковые автомобили и мотоциклы.
Движение других транспортных средств, включая автомобили с прицепами, запрещено.
На этих дорогах вне дополнительной полосы грузовые автомобили и автобусы с DMC ≥ 7500 кг должны соблюдать максимальную скорость 80 км/ч и не имеют права на обгон в любом направлении. Легковые автомобили и мотоциклы могут передвигаться со скоростью до 100 км/ч.
Сокращение количества дорог с постоянными ограничениями и трудностями в управлении движением
В отношении постоянных ограничений на дорогах с затруднённым движением, касающихся транспортных средств или автопоездов массой более 7,5 тонны, транспортных средств со специальным режимом перевозки и специальных транспортных средств, произошли значительные изменения. Из списка удалены следующие дороги:
• Дорога C-35 (между Масанет-де-ла-Сельва и Массанес)
• Дорога C-152 (между Ла-Валь-д’эн-Бас и Олот); C-26 (между Риполь и Серкс)
• Дорога C-37 (между Эль-Пла-де-Санта-Мария и Санта-Маргарита-де-Монбуй)
Постоянное ограничение сохраняется только на дороге C-153 на участке с км 60,9 до км 61,9 в районе Олот.
Дороги, на которых продолжают действовать постоянные ограничения (из-за высокой интенсивности грузового движения):
– N-II: от км 773,5 в Ла-Жонкера до км 709,0 в Форнельс
– N-240: от км 87,4 в Льейде до км 36,5 в Монбланке
– N-340: от км 1058,4 в Алканар до км 1122,0 в Л’Оспиталет-де-л’Инфант
– N-340: от км 1176,4 в Альтафулья до км 1209,5 в Вилафранка-дель-Пенедес
Новые исключения из ограничений
Введены новые исключения из ограничений для транспортных средств или автопоездов, предназначенных для перевозки следующих товаров:
яйца; блюда, требующие соблюдения определённого температурного режима; цветы, резанные и горшечные растения; мёд; туши животных; ферментирующие или гигроскопичные продукты;
медикаменты или медицинские изделия, которые необходимо хранить в холодильнике или при определённой температуре.
Кроме того, в отношении перевозки кормов и сырья для их производства для хозяйств, занимающихся сельскохозяйственным производством, в 2025 году также предусмотрены исключения для транспортных средств, направляющихся на комбикормовые заводы.
[UA]
Каталонія запроваджує спеціальні обмеження для вантажівок із напівпричепами типу мега та дуо-трейлер.
17 лютого в Офіційному віснику цієї автономної спільноти було опубліковано інформацію про обмеження для вантажних автомобілів у Каталонії. Нововведення включають: конкретні обмеження для транспортних засобів із напівпричепами типу мега та дуо; скасування постійних обмежень на всіх дорогах із труднощами в управлінні рухом, за винятком ділянки дороги C-153 в Олоті. Також було розширено список транспортних засобів, звільнених від обмежень.
Обмеження в певні дні, такі як Великдень, обмеження поширюються на більшу кількість доріг. Зокрема, на автомагістралі AP-7 заплановані обмеження руху в такі періоди: під час вихідних з 30 травня по 1 червня у зв’язку з проведенням мотоперегонів у Монмело; у свято Святого Йоана (“довгі вихідні”) 24 червня; у понеділок, 8 грудня.
Заборона руху для автопоїздів із двома напівпричепами
Рух автопоїздів, що складаються з двох напівпричепів, загалом заборонений у святкові дні, вихідні, п’ятничні післяобідні години та вечори напередодні свят. У п’ятницю після обіду та напередодні свят заборона діє з 15:00 до 24:00. Додатково встановлено, що транспортні засоби, які мають дозвіл на рух із двома напівпричепами, повинні постійно рухатися правою смугою та не мають права на обгін. Літні обмеження (з 16 червня по 11 вересня) y неділю та святкові дні рух вантажівок типу мега та автопоїздів із двома напівпричепами заборонений на звичайних ділянках доріг, що ведуть до Коста-Брави: C-253, C-35, C-63, GI-681 і GI-682. Водночас цього року іншим вантажівкам рух на цих маршрутах дозволений.
Обмеження та рух правою смугою на автомагістралях AP-7, A-2 та дорогах із додатковою смугою:
– У разі дії нижчезазначених обмежень:
Вантажівки та автобуси з повною масою (DMC) від 7500 кг повинні рухатися максимальною швидкістю 80 км/год. Автопоїзди з двома напівпричепами повинні рухатися виключно правою смугою та не можуть обганяти.
– Щоп’ятниці, неділі після обіду (17:00–22:00) та щосуботи вранці (10:00–14:00):
Вантажівки й автобуси (DMC ≥ 7500 кг) повинні рухатися правою смугою автомагістралі AP-7 на ділянці від Sant Celoni (км 111) до Vilafranca del Penedès (км 200) в обох напрямках.
Дати, коли діють вищезгадані обмеження:
• Страсний тиждень: Чистий четвер 17.04: 17:00–22:00; Страсна п’ятниця 18.04: 10:00–14:00; Великодній понеділок 21.04: 17:00–22:00
• 1 травня (четвер): 17:00–22:00
• П’ятниця перед Трійцею (6 червня): 17:00–22:00
• Субота (7.06): 10:00–14:00
• Понеділок (9.06): 17:00–22:00
• Свято Святого Йоана (23.06, понеділок): 17:00–22:00
• Вівторок (24.06): 17:00–22:00
• Національне свято Каталонії (9.11, четвер): 17:00–22:00
• Непорочне Зачаття Пресвятої Діви Марії: П’ятниця 5.12: 17:00–22:00
• Неділя 7.12: 17:00–22:00
• Понеділок 8.12: 17:00–22:00
– Обмеження на автомагістралі A-2 (рух у напрямку Барселони): Щонеділі з 5.01 до 13.04 та з 7.12 до 28.12 з 17:00 до 22:00. Вантажівки й автобуси (DMC ≥ 7500 кг) повинні рухатися правою смугою автомагістралі A-2 на ділянці між Igualada (км 550) та Martorell (км 586).
– Обмеження на дорогах із додатковою смугою руху: Додаткова смуга у зворотному напрямку призначена лише для легкових автомобілів і мотоциклів. Іншим транспортним засобам (включно з автомобілями з причепами) в’їзд заборонений. На цих дорогах (поза додатковою смугою):
Вантажівки та автобуси (DMC ≥ 7500 кг). Макс. швидкість: 80 км/год. Обгін заборонено в обох напрямках. Легкові автомобілі та мотоцикли: Макс. швидкість: 100 км/год.
Зменшення кількості доріг із постійними обмеженнями та труднощами в управлінні рухом
У випадку постійних обмежень на дорогах із ускладненим рухом, які застосовуються до транспортних засобів або автопоїздів із массою понад 7,5 тонни, транспортних засобів зі спеціальним режимом перевезення та спеціальних транспортних засобів, відбулися суттєві зміни, оскільки зі списку обмежених доріг було вилучено:
• Дорога C-35 (між Maçanet de la Selva та Massanes)
• Дорога C-152 (між La Vall d’en Bas та Olot)
• Дорога C-26 (між Ripoll та Cercs)
• Дорога C-37 (між El Pla de Santa Maria та Santa Margarida de Montbui).
Наразі постійне обмеження діє лише на дорозі C-153, на ділянці від км 60,9 до км 61,9 у місті Olot.
Дороги, де постійні обмеження залишаються чинними (через високу інтенсивність руху вантажного транспорту):
– N-II: від км 773,5 у La Jonquera до км 709,0 у Fornells
– N-240: від км 87,4 у Lleida до км 36,5 у Montblanc
– N-340: від км 1058,4 у Alcanar до км 1122,0 у L’Hospitalet de l’Infant
– N-340 від км 1176,4 у Altafulla до км 1209,5 у Vilafranca del Penedès
Нові винятки з обмежень
Запроваджено нові виключення для транспортних засобів або автопоїздів, що здійснюють перевезення таких продуктів: яйця, страви, що потребують підтримання певної температури, квіти, зрізані та горщикові рослини, мед, туші тварин
продукти, що бродять або мають гігроскопічні властивості, лікарські засоби та медичні вироби, для яких потрібне зберігання в холодильнику або при визначеній температурі.
Крім того, у 2025 році передбачено виняток для перевезення кормів і сировини для їхнього виробництва для сільськогосподарських підприємств, а також транспортних засобів, що прямують до кормових заводів.
by Catalonia introduces restrictions for trucks with mega and duo-trailers
Information about the restrictions were published in the Official Journal of Catalonia. The ordinance introduces restrictions for trucks with mega and duo-trailer vehicles and lifts permanent restrictions on all roads with difficulties in traffic management, with the exception of the C-153 in Olot. The list of vehicles exempt from the restrictions has also been extended.
On certain days, such as Easter, restrictions apply to more roads. Restrictions have been planned on the AP-7 motorway, e.g. during the weekend of 30 May to 1 June due to the organisation of a motorcycle race in Montmeló; on the feast of St. John during the “long weekend” of 24 June and on Monday, 8 December.
Driving ban for vehicle combinations with mega and double trailers
The movement of vehicle combinations with mega and double trailers is generally prohibited on public holidays, weekends, Friday afternoons and evenings preceding public holidays. On Friday afternoons and the day before public holidays, the ban applies from 3:00 PM to midnight. Vvehicles authorised to drive with two trailers will always have to use the right-hand lane and will not be allowed to overtake.
During the summer period (from 16 June to 11 September), on Sundays and public holidays, vehicle combinations with mega and double trailers are not allowed to drive on the regular sections of the access roads to the Costa Brava: C-253, C-35, C-63, GI-681 and GI-682, although this year other trucks are allowed to use these roads.
Restrictions and the obligation to use the right-hand lane on the AP-7, A-2 and on roads with an additional lane:
– Where restrictions apply as specified in the conditions below, trucks and buses with a GVW of 7,500 kilograms or more must not exceed the maximum speed of 80 km/h.
– Vehicles authorised to drive with two semi-trailers will always have to use the right-hand lane and will not be allowed to overtake.
– Every Friday and Sunday afternoon (from 5:00 PM to 10pm) and Saturday morning (from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM), trucks and buses with a GVW of 7,500 kilograms or more must use the right-hand lane of the AP-7 motorway between Sant Celoni (km 111) and Vilafranca del Penedès (km 200), in both directions of travel.
– The above restriction applies on the following dates:
• Holy Week: Maundy Thursday 17.04, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Good Friday 18.04, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Easter Monday 21.04, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
• Thursday, May 1, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• Friday before Pentecost, June 6, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• Saturday, June 7, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM;
• Monday, June 9, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• St. John’s Day, Monday, June 23, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• Tuesday, June 24, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• National Day of Catalonia, Thursday, November 9, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Friday, 5.12, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• Sunday, 7.12, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM;
• Monday, 08.12, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
– Every Sunday from 5.01 to 13.04 and from 7.12 to 28.12 in the afternoon (from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM), heavy goods vehicles and buses with a GVW of 7,500 kilograms or more must use the right lane of the A-2 motorway between Igualada (km 550) and Martorell (km 586), in the direction of Barcelona.
– The roads where an additional lane has been created in the opposite direction, can only be used by light vehicles and motorcycles, which means that other vehicles, including cars with trailers, are not allowed to drive there. On both roads, outside the additional lane, heavy goods vehicles and buses with a GVW of 7,500 kilograms or more must not drive faster than 80 km/h and are not allowed to overtake in any direction, while light vehicles and motorcycles must not drive faster than 100 km/h.
Reduction in the number of roads with permanent restrictions and management difficulties
The following roads have been removed from the list of roads with permanent restrictions, which apply to heavy goods vehicles or combinations of vehicles with a GVW over 7.5 tonnes, vehicles subject to special transport regimes and special vehicles:
• Road C-35 (between Maçanet de la Selva and Massanes)
• Road C-152 (between La Vall d’en Bas and Olot); C-26 (between Ripoll and Cercs)
• C-37 road (between El Pla de Santa Maria and Santa Margarida de Montbui).
The permanent restriction applies only on the C-153 road, from km 60.9 to km 61.9 in Olot.
Permanent restrictions are retained on the following roads (due to heavy goods traffic):
– N-II km 773.5 in La Jonquera to km 709.0 in Fornells.
– N-240 km. 87.4 in Lleida to km. 36.5 in Montblanc.
– N-340 km. 1058.4 in Alcanar to km. 1122.0 in L’Hospitalet de l’Infant.
– N-340 km. 1176.4 in Altafulla to km. 1209.5 in Vilafranca del Penedès.
New exemptions
New exemptions from driving restrictions have been introduced that apply to vehicles or vehicle combinations used for transporting the following products: eggs; dishes that must be kept warm; flowers, cut and potted plants; honey; dressed carcasses; fermenting or hygroscopic products; medicines or medical devices, which must be refrigerated or kept at a specific temperature. In addition, with regard to the transport of animal feed and raw materials for its production, in 2025 the exemption also applies to vehicles supplying feed factories.
by Spain: Night-time closures of the A-1
The expansion of access roads connecting the AP-1 motorway with the A-1 motorway, work is underway at the Armiñón junction on the fork between the A-1 carriageway in the Irún-Madrid direction and the branch connecting to the AP-1.
As a result, the A-1 motorway will be completely closed in the Irún-Madrid direction, between exit 334 (Puebla de Arganzón junction) and exit 328 (Armizón junction) during the following times:
• From 10:30 PM on Wednesday, February 19, to 5:30 AM on Thursday, February 20,
• From 10:30 PM on Thursday, February 20, to 5:30 AM on Friday, February 21,
• From 10:30 PM on Wednesday, February 26, to 5:30 AM on Thursday, February 27,
• From 10:30 PM on Thursday, February 27, to 5:30 AM on Friday, February 28.
Diversion routes
A signed diversion will be provided, via exit 334 of the A-1 motorway to the CL-127 regional road, towards Puebla de Arganzón. This road can be used to access the N-1 nroad towards Madrid, up to the Armiñón junction at exit 328 of the A-1 motorway. Through the junction at exit 328, drivers can access both the A-1/N-124 motorway towards Miranda de Ebro/Logroño and the AP-1 towards Burgos.
by Belgium: the Bolivar Tunnel in Antwerp closed for 10 nights
The Bolivar Tunnel, which connects Leien with the A112 motorway and the Antwerp ring road (R1), is scheduled for maintenance work between the 16th and 28th February. In this period, the tunnel shaft leading out of the city will be closed between 9pm and 6am. No work will be conducted on the nights from Friday to Saturday and Saturday to Sunday.
Further closures are planned in March, in each case from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM:
• March 16: in the direction of the city centre;
• March 17: in both directions;
• March 18: in both directions;
• March 19: in both directions;
• March 20: in the direction of the city centre.
Diversion routes along normal roads (as opposed to tunnels, bridges or overpasses) will always be available during the closures.
by Weekend Traffic Disruptions on the Route to the Netherlands – No Passage Through Beveren and Tijsmans Tunnels
This coming weekend, drivers should prepare for major traffic disruptions on the route to the Netherlands. From Friday evening to Monday morning, the Beveren and Tijsmans tunnels in Belgium will be completely closed due to roadworks. This may significantly impact traffic in the area, particularly near the Liefkenshoek Tunnel.
From Friday, February 14, 2025, at 8:00 PM to Monday, February 17, 2025, at 5:00 AM, the Belgian Agency for Roads and Traffic will carry out urgent maintenance work in the Beveren and Tijsmans tunnels in the direction of the Netherlands. As a result, both tunnels will be fully closed, which could severely disrupt transit traffic in the region.
Impact on Traffic and Alternative Routes
The closures will affect access to the Liefkenshoek Tunnel, which will be the only alternative route towards the Netherlands. Drivers should expect heavy traffic and potential congestion on detour routes.
Recommended Detours
For trucks and passenger vehicles traveling towards the Netherlands, the following detours are suggested:
⏺️ Via the Liefkenshoek Tunnel – Heavy traffic expected; it is advisable to plan ahead or consider other alternatives.
⏺️ Via the E17 motorway towards Ghent.
⏺️ Via the Antwerp Ring Road (R1) – Expect possible delays.