Transport Minister’s Resignation Casts New Shadow over Torrevieja’s Long-Delayed N-332 Dual Carriageway

The Spanish Transport Minister, Óscar Puente, resigned on November 3, just days before the country's general election on November 29, adding to the uncertainty surrounding a major road project in Torrevieja. Puente's departure comes as Torrevieja continues to grapple with the long-delayed N-332 dual carriageway, a road upgrade the city has been campaigning for, citing severe traffic congestion.

Despite repeated government assurances, construction has yet to commence, and the project remains uncompleted. Torrevieja Mayor Eduardo Dolón has criticized the Transport Ministry for failing to deliver on promises, submitting numerous requests for meetings with Puente or high-ranking officials, which were consistently denied. The project, which spans 4.5 kilometers, has received favorable environmental approval, but further bureaucratic procedures need to be completed before any construction can begin.

While Puente's resignation does not necessarily halt the project, it introduces further political uncertainty. With the election results still unclear, a new government could tweak spending priorities and infrastructure plans before approving further funding for the N-332. The situation leaves Torrevieja residents and visitors in limbo, waiting for a resolution that appears increasingly distant as political transitions threaten to stall progress once again.