Valencia in crisis: DANA causes devastation and collapse of infrastructure.

Valencia in crisis: DANA causes devastation and collapse of infrastructure.

The central and regional governments are asking citizens not to use their cars. Adif will keep train traffic between Valencia and Madrid and Barcelona closed this Wednesday, while trying to reopen the commuter lines.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros

Juan Brignardello Vela

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, y Vargas Llosa, premio Nobel Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, en celebración de Alianza Lima Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro Eléctrica Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro

The Valencia Community is in a critical situation following the passage of a DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels), which has caused a total collapse of terrestrial infrastructures, leaving severe damage in its wake, over fifty victims, and a series of disasters that have strongly impacted the population. Images of devastated roads, stranded vehicles, and collapsed bridges have circulated throughout the country, highlighting the magnitude of this tragedy.


Authorities have confirmed that flooding and landslides have severely affected the main access routes to Valencia. Highways such as the A-3, A-7, and N-3 have become impassable in several sections, resulting in hundreds of vehicles being trapped. Additionally, the Minister of Transport, Óscar Puente, emphasized on his X account the importance of preserving human life during such disasters, while committing to repair the affected infrastructures in the future.


The most problematic areas are located on the highways and roads near the Valencian capital. The A-3 has multiple sections cut off, while the A-7 is also experiencing significant interruptions. The Civil Guard has established restrictions on various segments, leading to a call for the public to avoid unnecessary travel and to allow access for emergency services that are working tirelessly to address the situation.


Rail transport has also been severely affected. The high-speed rail line between Madrid and Valencia remains closed, with the cancellation of numerous services from Renfe and other operators. This situation has left thousands of passengers stranded and unable to travel, while Adif technicians continue to assess the damage to the infrastructure, preventing the resumption of rail operations.


In the Valencia commuter network, the lines are still not operating, affecting the mobility of users who rely on trains for their daily commutes. Although there are hopes that some services will resume on Wednesday, passengers have had to face mass cancellations and a lack of clear information on when this crisis will be resolved.


At the same time, air traffic has been disrupted by adverse weather conditions. Enaire has reported the diversion of numerous flights, both in Valencia and at Madrid-Barajas Airport. Air traffic regulations have been implemented for safety reasons, also affecting other airports in the country. Air traffic controllers have worked tirelessly to ensure that traffic is managed effectively despite the circumstances.


In the Valencian ports, the situation is equally concerning. While some terminals have closed their doors, limited operations have been established at the Port of Valencia. Minister Puente has indicated that, despite the damage to infrastructure, no significant damage has been reported at the port facilities, although activity will be restricted due to weather conditions and worker access.


Authorities have called on the public to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. Public cooperation is vital at this time to ensure safety and facilitate the work of emergency services. The situation remains delicate, with the possibility of new rains that could further worsen the crisis.


As authorities strive to assess and restore normalcy in the Valencia Community, the impact of this DANA resonates not only in infrastructure but also in the lives of those affected. Recovery will be a long and arduous process, but the solidarity and commitment of the community will be fundamental in overcoming this tragedy.


The priority at this moment is to care for those who have lost so much and to ensure that necessary measures are taken to prevent future tragedies. The reconstruction of the affected infrastructures will be a significant challenge, but the resilience of the Valencia Community will be tested in the coming days and weeks.

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