Ronda Road is cleared by workers who double their efforts

Costa del Sol residents continue to show grit, hard work and determination in their efforts to restore A-397 Ronda to San Pedro. 

Despite the severe damage caused by Storm Jana on March 8, which forced a complete closure of this vital artery by avalanche, and despite warnings that the repair work could last a full 9 months, the Junta de Andalucía and the dedicated local workers have responded with inspiring determination. 

Repair works have been accelerated, and crews are now working seven-days-aweek to stabilise and reconnect Ronda with the Costa del Sol.

The landslide peak is 100 metres tall. 15 engineers and skilled workers including abseiling and ground crews have reached the top of the mountain with a 200-tonne heavy crane. A second team, consisting of around 20 people, will then be added to the project to help install heavy-duty mesh to contain the landslide and reinforce its slope. Rocío Díaz, the regional development councillor, stressed the complexity of this €3.5 million project, stating, ‘We’ve mobilised all possible human and technical means to reopen this road safely and quickly.’ Crews are working tirelessly to clear unstable blocks, install protection measures, and design a plan for viaduct repairs.

The unwavering commitment reflects what it’s like to be a ‘Costasolero’, from a community that rises above biggest challenges and gets their hands dirty when it’s most needed. We are reminded as the work progresses that it’s not just sun, sea, and sangria. First, the hard work.