Reduction of speed limits on the Mont-Blanc highway

If you are planning a winter trip to the mountains, take note: speed limits have been reduced on the Mont-Blanc highway.

If you are not familiar with the PPA2 (Atmosphere Protection Plan), it is a comprehensive plan designed to enhance air quality in the Mont-Blanc region, particularly in the Arve Valley. This regulation entails various measures in the event of pollution peaks during winter, spanning residential, industrial, and transportation sectors.

For several years, the local authorities have consistently reduced speed limits in the region, especially on the Mont-Blanc highway. Vacationers are urged to exercise increased caution to avoid potential penalties.

Changes to speed limits this winter

Specifically, from November 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024, the speed limit has been decreased to 110 km/h from 130 km/h on the A411 and A40 motorways between Vallard customs and Le Fayet. According to ATMB (Highways and Mont-Blanc Tunnel), this 20 km/h speed limit reduction on the Autoroute Blanche aims to cut NOx emissions (nitrogen oxides) by 25%, fine PM10 particles by 5%, fine PM2.5 particles by 7%, as well as CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions by 10%, based on a traffic distribution of 90% light vehicles and 10% heavy goods vehicles.

The Mont-Blanc Tunnel closed until December

It is worth noting that due to essential technical maintenance operations, including work to replace elements of the running slab in the central section of the tunnel and the replacement of 76 vault accelerators, the Mont-Blanc Tunnel is completely closed for 9 weeks from October 16, 2023. The reopening to vehicular traffic is scheduled for the evening of Monday, December 18, 2023.

The company managing the Mont-Blanc highway also emphasizes that from November 1st to March 31st, winter equipment is compulsory for traveling in Haute-Savoie. This measure aims to minimize the risk of accidents and road blockages in the event of heavy snowfall. Therefore, motorists will need to equip themselves with snow tires, chains, or snow socks when traveling in the Mont-Blanc region.

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