Encamp Consul Urges France to Delay Pas de la Casa Border Closures

Xavier Fernàndez, Encamp's minor consul, called on French authorities Tuesday to avoid closing the Pas de la Casa border crossing too far in advance, urging them instead to monitor weather developments and act only when truly needed.

Fernàndez made the remarks during Encamp's Sant Antoni escudella celebration, explaining that premature shutdowns prompt French tourists to stay away, harming local businesses. He stressed that public safety comes first, but noted weather forecasts often prove inaccurate—conditions may turn out milder or worse than predicted. If closure becomes essential, it should happen, he added.

Recalling last week's storm, Fernàndez described Encamp's immediate outreach to the government to ease the impact. Local teams offered snow-clearing equipment to France despite the initial cutoff, and French officials eventually permitted Andorran machines to help clear roads, allowing a prompt reopening.

He also highlighted the recently inaugurated avalanche corridor, which aims to reduce post-storm risks from triggered avalanches, enabling visitors to return safely without prolonged disruptions. Fernàndez dismissed suggestions that France might intend such closures to keep tourists on its side, saying officials do not believe that to be the case.

Culture councillor Joan Sans, asked about uncertainty among Pas de la Casa traders, pointed to the area's Economic and Social Council, which includes parish representatives for direct engagement with businesses and associations. "We are right there on the front lines, supporting the community," Sans said.