The Fréjus Tunnel, a strategic link between France and Italy, will be completely closed to traffic from Saturday, December 13 at 10 p.m. until Sunday, December 14 at 6 a.m. This complete closure, although rare, is part of essential maintenance operations to guarantee the safety and smooth flow of traffic on this major infrastructure.
Since the second tunnel opened, technical work has generally been carried out without disrupting traffic thanks to a system that switches between the two tunnels. However, some operations require a complete closure for safety and efficiency reasons. This is precisely the case this weekend, where specific work necessitates a complete shutdown of traffic in both directions.
This closure is coordinated with the reopening of the Mont Blanc Tunnel, scheduled for December 12, to maintain the continuity of transalpine traffic. Authorities emphasize that this work is essential for modernizing infrastructure and complying with European safety standards, particularly after the major incidents that have occurred in Alpine tunnels in recent decades.
Users are advised to plan their journeys in advance and to favor alternative routes. Among the possible options are the Mont Blanc Tunnel, now operational, or Alpine passes for those who can afford a longer journey, weather permitting. Road haulage companies, which are particularly affected, must adjust their schedules to avoid delays.
These maintenance operations are part of a comprehensive program to enhance the safety of Alpine tunnels, with significant investments in ventilation, video surveillance, and warning systems. The objective is clear: to offer motorists and professionals a safe and reliable passage, while reducing the risks associated with fires or accidents.
In summary, although inconvenient, this temporary closure is a necessary step to ensure the continued operation and safety of one of the main transport routes between France and Italy. Authorities recommend consulting official websites to follow the progress of the works and traffic conditions in real time.