The Spanish traffic police have announced the launch of a special operation for the May holidays: according to the DirecciΓ³n General de TrΓ‘fico (DGT), around six million long-distance trips are expected across the country from April 30 to May 3. Although there is one less public holiday this year compared to last, the agency forecasts that traffic will surpass last year’s levels. Short-distance trips are also expected to increaseβover 1.5 million movements in just a few days.
Peak load β departures from cities
Major traffic jams are forecast for the evening of Thursday, April 30, when residents of major cities head en masse to the coast, the mountains, and their country homes. The DGT advises avoiding travel between 3:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.βthese hours are expected to see the highest traffic density. A similar situation is possible on the morning of May 1. On Saturday, May 2, which is a public holiday in Madrid, another surge in traffic is expected, this time focused on short weekend trips. Most drivers are expected to return on the evening of Sunday, May 3.
Measures and restrictions
To control the situation, Guardia Civil officers, DGT control center staff, as well as technical means are deployed: fixed and mobile speed cameras, helicopters, drones, and cameras for recording violations. On the busiest highways, especially in the central part of the country, reversible and additional lanes will be opened. Temporary suspension of roadworks, restrictions on sporting events, and bans on truck traffic on certain sections are among the measures aimed at reducing the risk of traffic jams and accidents.
Special attention to the coast and Madrid
The greatest traffic load is expected on routes to the Andalusian and Levante coasts, as well as to mountain areas and secondary residence zones. Roads in Andalusia, Comunidad Valenciana, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y LeΓ³n, Madrid, and Murcia will be under special supervision. Authorities emphasize that the center of the country traditionally becomes a bottleneck due to intersecting traffic flows and the additional public holiday in Madrid.
Recommendations and information
DGT reminds drivers to observe speed limits, not to use mobile phones while driving, never drive under the influence of alcohol, and always wear seat belts. Before traveling, it is recommended to check the weather forecast on the Agencia Estatal de MeteorologΓa website and clarify road conditions through DGT official channels: X accounts @informacionDGT and @DGTes, radio, television, and phone number 011. In the event of a breakdown or accident on the road, always use the V16 emergency beacon.
Issues of transport regulation and restrictions on mass events in Spain are not being discussed for the first time: recently, the authorities considered additional measures to control digital platforms and housing speculation, which was covered in more detail in the article on new initiatives in Barcelona.
