A new radar will be installed at the Gran Via and Selva de Mar intersection, which saw 18 accidents in 2025. Local residents have pushed for measures to enhance safety.
The intersection of Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes and Selva de Mar in Barcelona has been identified as the city’s most dangerous traffic point, recording a staggering 18 accidents in 2025 alone. Following a concerning rise in collisions, with another 11 incidents reported by April 21, 2026, local authorities are taking action to improve safety.
The decision to install a radar system comes after persistent calls from the community for preventive measures against frequent accidents. The city council plans to implement an automatic sanctioning system aimed at drivers who violate traffic signals at this notorious junction. This initiative is part of broader efforts to address the alarming trend of road incidents.
The radar will not monitor speed but will focus on ensuring compliance with traffic regulations specifically at this intersection. A spokesperson for the municipal government stated, “We will install a system that automatically penalizes drivers who disregard instructions at this critical crossing.” However, residents may have to wait several months before the device becomes operational due to necessary administrative procedures.
Community group Amics de la Gran Via has expressed frustration over the slow pace of these safety improvements. Edorta Moreno, a representative from the association, remarked on their concerns: “While we support measures that prevent accidents, we question why it takes so long. Are we waiting for a fatality before action is taken?” The group has been informed that it could take up to a year for the radar project to be finalized and put into operation.
A historical comparison reveals that similar intersections across major cities often see significant reductions in accidents following the installation of automated monitoring systems. For instance, after implementing similar measures in Madrid’s busiest areas, accident rates dropped by nearly 30%.
In addition to the radar installation, Barcelona’s city council plans adjustments to traffic light timings at this busy junction. These changes aim to alleviate vehicle congestion on Gran Via while allowing more time for turns onto Selva de Mar. This reconfiguration is expected to improve overall traffic flow and reduce potential conflict points between vehicles.
The critical area within this intersection features three lanes where confusion often arises regarding mandatory turns. Drivers must navigate carefully or risk colliding with vehicles merging from adjacent lanes—a situation exacerbated by outdated signage that has recently been updated as part of ongoing safety enhancements.
In total, approximately 7,000 traffic accidents were recorded across Barcelona in 2025, highlighting widespread issues throughout its road network. While many areas experience sporadic incidents, this particular crossing remains a focal point for both local authorities and residents alike.
The city council’s commitment includes relocating stop lines and adjusting signal placements on nearby bridges to create more space for vehicle accumulation during peak hours. These proactive steps reflect an understanding of urban mobility challenges faced by residents daily.
As preparations continue for these significant changes at one of Barcelona’s most hazardous intersections, residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming developments through local news channels and community meetings where updates will be shared regularly.
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