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Tyre troubles: Sharp screws cause hundreds of punctures on Spain's most expensive toll road
Drivers report numerous punctures on the AP-68 due to scattered screws, raising serious safety concerns
In recent months, motorists travelling on Spain's AP-68 toll road, particularly between Logroño and Haro, have experienced an alarming number of tyre punctures. The cause has been identified as sharp, several-centimetre-long sheet metal screws strewn across the roadway.The AP-68, connecting Bilbao and Logroño, is among Spain's most expensive toll roads, with a total cost approaching €17. Fortunately, the toll is set to expire in November 2026, after which the road is expected to become toll-free.
A Guardia Civil investigation into the recent spate of tyre punctures suggests that the screws scattered all over the road is a deliberate act of sabotage. Motorists have expressed frustration, noting that a toll road should have regular cleaning protocols to prevent such hazards. However, the national road network often suffers from inadequate maintenance.
This incident mirrors a previous situation on the BU-800 near Burgos, where residents and travellers experienced numerous punctures due to similar screws on the road. In that case, the Guardia Civil collected between six and seven kilograms of screws from the roadway. It was suspected that a local individual, upset over recent construction projects that increased traffic, was responsible for the sabotage.If the AP-68 incident is confirmed as intentional, those responsible could face charges related to endangering road safety, which can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment. The presence of frequent fog in the area during this season exacerbates the danger, as a sudden tyre puncture could easily lead to accidents.
Compounding the issue, many modern vehicles lack a spare tyre, making roadside repairs challenging. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or debris on the road to authorities promptly.
Image 1: Konstantin Evdokimov on Unsplash
Image: Frank Albrecht on Unsplash
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