The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has identified the A-44 in the province of Jaén as one of Spain's traffic problem areas. Modernization works in several tunnels along the highway, specifically between the municipalities of Pegalajar and Carchelejo, are causing significant congestion and delays, particularly impacting drivers heading towards the coasts of Granada and Málaga.
Initially, the works were expected to be completed before June 30th, but this deadline was missed. Sources from the Government Sub-delegation stated that efforts were being made to avoid issues on August 1st, but the second deadline has also passed without a new completion date being set. Potential changes and relaxations in traffic disruptions have been mentioned, but without specific details.
The DGT has implemented a special operation for this weekend, coinciding with the mid-month change and local patron saint festivals, anticipating 5.6 million journeys across Spain, with 1.2 million in Andalusia. While Sunday afternoon has started with general traffic tranquility, slow traffic is being reported in other parts of the country, including the A-6 in Ávila, the A-52 in Ourense, and the entrance to Valencia via the A-3.
Signage has been installed to warn drivers about an alternative route to partially bypass the congestion. Those traveling towards Granada can take exit 50 towards Pegalajar, merge onto the N-323a heading to Granada, and rejoin the A-44 at the Carchelejo junction.
