The new road in La Palma: a symbol of resilience after the volcanic eruption.

On September 19, 2021, La Palma became the epicenter of one of the most devastating volcanic eruptions in recent Spanish history. The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted, leaving a trail of destruction that lasted 85 days and unfortunately resulted in the loss of one life, as well as economic and material damages estimated at over 800 million euros. Among the infrastructures affected by the lava was the coastal road that connected the municipality of Tazacorte with the town of Puerto de Naos. However, the joint effort of the government and local authorities allowed for the reconstruction of this vital roadway, which was inaugurated and opened to traffic on May 25, 2023. The new road stands as a symbol of resilience and recovery in the face of natural disasters, demonstrating that despite adversities, it is possible to rebuild and revitalize a community. Constructing this road was no easy task. The project has been described as unprecedented, as it was built over recent lava, facing an unmatched technical and environmental challenge. With a length of 3.9 kilometers, the road was paved using a bituminous mixture suitable for the extreme heat conditions from the lava, making it a pioneering project in civil engineering on a global scale. Additionally, a thorough testing campaign was conducted for the design of the pavement, given that the temperature conditions at the base of the road were higher than usual. These efforts focused not only on the road's resistance and functionality but also on its sustainability, as the concrete and embankments used came from material excavated from the same route. But La Palma is not the only region in Spain with unique roads. For example, the Sa Calobra road in Mallorca is famous for its tight curves and narrow path that descends to a picturesque beach. With a length of 14 kilometers, this route has become a challenge for both drivers and cyclists, who must navigate numerous 180 and 360-degree turns. On a national level, there is the Mediterranean Road or N-340, recognized as the longest national road in Spain. Stretching from Puerto Real in Cádiz to Barcelona, this route covers 1,248 kilometers and passes through several major cities. The N-340 follows the path of the ancient Via Augusta, although today most of its route is dual-carriageway, which complicates the journey along its original course. In order to ensure the safety of users on Spain's roads, starting this year, the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has implemented special controls on several roads. This measure aims to improve road safety and reduce the number of accidents, ensuring that drivers comply with regulations and that roads are maintained in optimal conditions. The new road in La Palma, along with other unique routes in the country, highlights the importance of infrastructure in the development and connectivity of communities. They not only facilitate transit and commerce but are also vital for recovery after natural disasters, as demonstrated by the rapid reconstruction following the Cumbre Vieja eruption. As we move forward in time, it is essential to continue supporting and strengthening infrastructure, not only in La Palma but throughout Spain. Safety, sustainability, and resilience must be pillars in the planning and construction of roads, ensuring that they are prepared to face future challenges while maintaining connectivity between the different regions of the country.