Traffic Chaos Ahead: Major Detours Coming to A-68 Near Zaragoza!

Mallén, Zaragoza, España - The construction of the Ebro highway A-68 between Gallur and Mallén is steadily progressing, a project that the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility has taken under its wings. Set against a budget of €63.56 million (including VAT), this ambitious initiative aims to complete the much-needed highway expansion. Residents and motorists can expect some significant changes starting from 8:00 a.m. on July 25, 2025, as traffic will be diverted along the N-232 between kilometers 293.800 and 293.900 heading towards Zaragoza in Mallén. This detour is anticipated to last approximately two months, with an end date set for September 30, 2025.

Before the detour kicks in, preparations will include essential signage and safety measures executed along a traffic-free segment. Additionally, a temporary exit towards the Mallén Este link will facilitate traffic to flow onto the A-68 headed towards Zaragoza, making navigation a bit smoother amidst the construction chaos.

Details of the Works

As part of the ongoing development, the A-68 construction entails the demolition of the N-232 road spanning from kilometers 296 to 296.9 to carve out one of the lanes for the new highway. With this transformation, a temporary detour will also be introduced through an auxiliary road parallel to the existing N-232, designed to effectively manage traffic over the next couple of months. Motorists should note that there will be reduced speed limits of 60 km/h enforced in these zones to prioritize safety during the transition.

The reality on the ground remains fluid. Intermittent traffic interruptions are expected on the day of the changes, specifically from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., as crews work to adjust the vertical and horizontal signage to match the new layout. This kind of hustle and bustle may be uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary step forward for a more efficient transport infrastructure.

Broader Implications for Transport

This development has not come without its share of controversy. Associations such as Tradime have voiced their displeasure regarding the incoming tolls that transporters will face on the A-68 as it crosses through Navarra next year. While the Minister of Transport, José Luis Ábalos, continues to advocate for the Cantabrian-Mediterranean Corridor, many transporters feel the pinch from both increased tolls and their ongoing tax obligations for infrastructure usage. Those familiar with the roads note that more than 6,000 trucks use this artery every day, linking the Cantabrian and Mediterranean coasts.

Tradime is particularly concerned about the safety of the ongoing construction on the N-232, as José Antonio Moliner, the association’s president, points out that the current state of the road poses risks, especially at night or during inclement weather. It seems there’s still work needed not only on the infrastructure but also on addressing the worries of those who rely on these routes for their livelihood.

As the detours and construction marks the way forward, we bid for the promise of improvements that will ultimately enhance both safety and efficiency within our transportation networks. After all, when it comes to infrastructure, there’s always something to be said for piquing our patience for a better future.

For more details, visit El Periódico de Aragón’s comprehensive report here. You can also check Heraldo for the latest news on the detours here, and learn about the transport association’s perspective at Autónomos en Ruta here.