The destroyed asphalt increases tire blowouts on the access highways to Madrid: 'They're not potholes, they're sinkholes'
The deteriorating asphalt on several highways leading to and from Madrid has caused a rise in tire blowouts, alarming drivers and assistance services.
The condition of numerous national roads leading to Madrid has significantly deteriorated, especially along routes such as the M-40, A-5, A-4, and A-42, which are managed by the Ministry of Transport. In recent weeks, there has been a notable increase in tire blowouts, described by daily commuters as 'brutal.' The situation has left many vehicles stranded as drivers are increasingly cautious about navigating these road sections, which have been characterized by severe potholes and sinkholes.
Specifically, the M-40 corridor, particularly between kilometers 30 and 40, has seen a sharp rise in roadside assistance calls. One tow truck operator revealed he single-handedly retrieved around 20 vehicles in just a few days within that stretch. The operator estimates that the total number of affected vehicles for that week could range from 40 to 50. The recurring theme is that drivers are hitting sinkholes, resulting in damaged tires and posing a significant risk to road safety.
As the situation worsens, authorities will likely face pressure to address the lack of maintenance on these critical access roads. The report underscores not only the immediate danger posed to drivers but also the broader implications for traffic management and infrastructure funding in Spain. The rising number of incidents highlights the critical need for quick action from transportation officials to remediate the conditions before they lead to more severe accidents and disruptions on the highways.