Rocafort Tunnel Blasting Halted in Sant Julià de Lòria After Resident Complaints
Authorities paused explosive work at the Rocafort tunnel's northern site following resident reports of structural damage and disturbances. Safer methods will replace blasts temporarily while ensuring the project stays on track for 2027.
Key Points
- Blasting at northern entrance paused for two weeks due to explosions shaking buildings, cracking structures, breaking windows, and scattering rocks.
- Government switches to hydraulic breaker at north portal; south end continues normally, no delay to 2027 completion.
- 233m tunnel on CG-1 highway will have three lanes, cut CO2 emissions by 41%; handles 18,000-25,000 daily vehicles.
- Mayor praises safety measures; no injuries or public infrastructure damage reported.
Blasting at the northern entrance of the Rocafort tunnel construction site in Sant Julià de Lòria remains halted for two weeks following resident complaints about disturbances from recent explosions.
The government has confirmed that work at the northern portal will continue using a hydraulic breaker during this period, while operations at the southern entrance proceed normally. Officials stressed that the switch in methods will not affect project deadlines, with completion still targeted for summer 2027.
Residents reported powerful blasts earlier this week that caused buildings to shake, structural cracks, broken windows, and rocks landing on balconies and properties. The government called the problems unexpected, issued an apology, and noted ongoing site monitoring. The construction company informed affected residents on Thursday and pledged prior warnings for any future detonations.
Sant Julià de Lòria mayor Cerni Cairat praised the steps to safeguard locals and confirmed no public infrastructure was damaged.
The 233-metre tunnel on the CG-1 highway, between the Fontaneda secondary road exit and Aixovall junction, will include three lanes: two southbound, one northbound, and a reversible central lane. Daily traffic stands at around 18,000 vehicles, climbing to 25,000 in peak seasons and holidays. The development is projected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 41 per cent.
Tunnelling has advanced from both ends since August. No injuries were reported.
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Aturades durant dues setmanes les detonacions a les obres de la boca nord del túnel de Rocafort
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