The AP-7 closure near Martorell has caused major disruption. Consequently, drivers travelling south face significant delays this week. Authorities have enforced a total closure between Martorell and Vilafranca del Penedès. This measure, which began at 18:00 on Wednesday, is expected to last for several days. The reason is serious safety concerns regarding a collapsed retaining wall.

The Catalan Traffic Service (SCT) has suspended circulation in the southbound direction. Meanwhile, engineers assess the structural stability of the embankment. Current reports indicate that no reopening date has been set. Therefore, commuters should plan for extended delays and use alternative routes immediately.

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AP-7 Closure Martorell: Structural Risks Force Highway Shutdown

The decision to close the highway stems from a train derailment in Gelida yesterday evening. This incident caused a section of the retaining wall to collapse. According to the Firefighters of the Generalitat, the unstable wall is currently being physically supported by the wreckage of the Rodalies train. This precarious situation has created a risk of further collapse onto the roadway. For more context on the primary incident, you can learn about the initial train derailment in Gelida.

Guillem Amorós, the chief of intervention for the Firefighters, explained the situation. He stated that the behaviour of the embankment must be carefully analysed once the train is removed. Until ADIF completes the complex operation of clearing the track and the wall is deemed secure, the highway cannot safely reopen. The stability of the terrain is a key focus, particularly after the region was impacted by severe weather from Storm Harry.

While only the lane closest to the wall is directly affected by debris, authorities opted for a full closure. The Catalan Traffic Service, in coordination with the Mossos d’Esquadra and the Ministry of Transport, made this decision. This measure ensures that vibrations from passing vehicles—particularly heavy goods vehicles—do not trigger a secondary landslide.

AP-7 Closure Martorell: Alternative Routes for Drivers

With the southbound lanes closed between exits 171 and 179, authorities have established diversions. Drivers can rejoin the AP-7 at Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, depending on traffic conditions.

The Catalan government has outlined several alternative routes. For example:

  • For inland travel (Anoia/Penedès interior): Use the A-2 from Martorell followed by the N-224.
  • For Tarragona and the coast: The N-340 serves as the main parallel alternative.
  • For Vilafranca del Penedès: The C-15 is available as a supporting route.

The removal of the train by ADIF will be the deciding factor for reopening. Until then, the Catalan Traffic Service recommends avoiding the area entirely unless travel is strictly necessary. This event also brings attention to the wider transport infrastructure, including the management of the Rodalies commuter network involved in the accident. For further official traffic updates, drivers can consult the Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) website.

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