Catalunya marks this month five years since the removal of tolls on the AP-7, the AP-2, the C-32 north, and the C-33. It cannot be said, in light of the consequences of that decision, that the anniversary is a cause for deep satisfaction. Especially on the Mediterranean highway, the toll-free status has been a magnet for tens of thousands of cars and trucks that before the barriers were lifted opted for secondary roads free of charge. La Vanguardia told you this Tuesday that the artery has already reached its peak in 2026 in terms of vehicle growth, with a cumulative increase of 45% since September 2021. There has been much speculation about how to proceed, considering that the removal has helped reduce accident rates. Trànsit has a roadmap in hand: to follow the Dutch path, with a barrier-free toll and a variable rate.

A few days ago, technicians from the Barcelona City Council dismantled once again, table by table and chair by chair, what has been known for several years as the largest illegal terrace in the city. This is another consequence of the tourist overcrowding that affects this side of Barcelona.