Aid reopening border crossings between Spain and France

Priority question for written answer P-001909/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Borja Giménez Larraz (PPE)

On 6 September 2024 heavy rains caused the closure of two border crossings between France and Spain through the Bielsa and Somport tunnels - the former due to landslides and the latter due to a collapse on the French side. As a result, lorry traffic has been interrupted until the Somport tunnel is reopened, a process that the French Government estimates could take up to six months.

This situation affects both countries, as the tunnels are a key border crossing between the Aragon and Aspe valleys, and many people cross the border every day for work, business or school purposes. Moreover, located in the Central Pyrenees, the Somport tunnel is one of the longest in Europe, serving as a major international road freight transport route, handling approximately 1 600 vehicles a day.

• 1.What means does the Commission have at its disposal to ensure the tunnels are immediately reopened and normal operating conditions are restored?
• 2.Does the Commission plan to activate the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve (SEAR) to provide a rapid response to this unfortunate natural disaster?
• 3.Finally, how does the Commission intend to support national authorities to improve existing transport routes and ensure the cross-border transportation of goods?

Submitted: 1.10.2024