Andorra proposes barring unequipped tourist coaches during snow forecasts

Jordi Alcobé, Canillo's senior consul, has proposed barring foreign tourist coaches from entering Andorra without winter equipment such as snow chains or contact tyres during snow forecasts, following traffic chaos caused by storm Harry.

The call came at a Wednesday press conference after the parish council meeting, addressing Tuesday's disruptions on the CG-2 near La Trava in Canillo. Eight foreign buses without required gear blocked roads, prompting seven fines—six for buses and one for a private vehicle—under road regulations. Alcobé called the episode "lamentable" for a snow-prone country, noting such incidents are increasingly frequent. "The sad part is that this makes news," he said, adding that people should arrive prepared.

He stressed risks at vulnerable spots like Racons and La Trava, where a stranded vehicle could plunge into the river, endangering passengers, locals, and other motorists. "So far, consequences have been limited to traffic problems, but there could be major human harm," Alcobé warned. For coaches carrying tourists, he advocated "agile" border checks to prevent entry if unequipped, deeming such measures feasible unlike for private cars, which would overwhelm frontiers.

Government spokesperson Guillem Casal said the executive is analysing the proposal alongside existing protocols, both internally and with parishes. Andorra receives up to 10 million visitors annually, he noted, emphasising better communication of winter rules to tourists and school groups. "We'll review them to ensure mobility issues don't threaten safety," Casal stated. He welcomed joint discussions over public announcements, saying checks could work "if reality allows implementation." Casal confirmed the buses were duly fined per the road code, thanked public workers, and affirmed current protocols function but warrant updates for high tourist volumes during storms.