French RN-20 Landslide Closure Triggers Andorran Economic Crisis and Aid Measures

French authorities have begun complex stabilisation work on the RN-20 landslide at km 86.5 near Merens, following the January 31 incident that displaced 200 cubic metres of rock, including blocks of 14 and 20 tonnes. The closure between Ax-les-Thermes and L'Hospitalet-près-l'Andorre will last at least three months, potentially into May, though officials now indicate a partial alternative lane could open earlier if safety is assured and weather permits. Territory Minister Raül Ferré, after an on-site visit with French prefect Hervé Bravant and Ambassador Nicolas Eybalin, praised the engineering—suspended platforms on a 230-270m cliff face, nets, anchors to secure unstable 8-20 tonne rocks and avert a possible 500-1,000 tonne collapse—as matching Andorran methods. Explosives were ruled out due to risks, with bi-weekly inspections planned and weather already causing delays.

The economic fallout intensifies pressure on Pas de la Casa's lower-town retailers reliant on Toulouse day-trippers, now facing 2.5-5 hour detours. Losses have hit 70-80% in some outlets, with projections nearing 90% over three months. Gerard Pifarré of the local Economic and Social Council warned of lasting habit shifts toward La Jonquera or Bossòst. Òscar Ramon of the Neighbours and Traders Association noted compounded effects from prior protests and snow closures, while Raül Calvo of tobacco traders called conditions catastrophic, urging suspension of sensitive goods restrictions amid sharp smuggling drops. Grandvalira reported 11,000 lost ski days in January and a 30% French visitor fall in February, potentially 30,000 more days lost.

In response, the government approved a Wednesday package: €30 weekly fuel vouchers for Occitanie residents (Ariège 09, Haute-Garonne 31, Aude 11, Pyrénées-Orientales 66), redeemable at Pas tourist offices; 20% Grandvalira discounts for SNCF arrivals to L'Hospitalet; 12 daily free shuttles there to Pas de la Casa (50-50 funded by government and Encamp); and Andorra Turisme campaigns to 130,000 French subscribers. Further aid covers 50-100% employer CASS contributions for 25-50%+ revenue drops versus 2025, IGI deferrals or instalments, and future soft loans with personal guarantees. Head of Government Xavier Espot described measures as "appropriate and evolving," rejecting ERTOs to protect jobs. Andorra formally requested free Puymorens tunnel passage from France, awaiting reply.

Encamp council, under Cònsol Major Laura Mas, allocated €2m mirroring CASS criteria: 50-100% rebates on residency and hygiene taxes for 25-50%+ drops, plus grants for open firms; rent support is under review. A new Economic and Social Council meeting precedes an extraordinary session. Mas called the closure "shocking" in peak winter, flipping a strong season, but pledged support where national aid falls short, urging domestic shopping solidarity.

Opposition Avancem's Marta Pujol praised intent but faulted preparation, demanding direct rent aid amid fixed costs and 50-90% drops in lower Pas shops; she accused Encamp of improvising without protocols. Mas countered that opposition had offered no direct help. Consuls, including Canillo's Jordi Alcobé, stressed Pas access via RN-66, Puymorens, rail to L'Hospitalet, La Jonquera or Bossòst, calling for Andorra Turisme-led communication to southern France and noting wider impacts on cross-border workers, students and goods. Foreign Minister Imma Tor highlighted diplomatic pushes and national economic strain, with France funding repairs independently. Ministers continue technical, political and diplomatic monitoring.