NDS begins autumn maintenance of Slovak highway tunnels

The National Highway Company (NDS) is launching its autumn maintenance program for highway tunnels in Slovakia, beginning September 4 with the Višňové tunnel, the country's longest. Most of the 13 operational tunnels will undergo regular servicing to prepare for the winter season, with the exception of the Svrčinovec and Poľana tunnels, which were serviced during the summer.

To minimize impact on traffic, NDS has scheduled the majority of the work to take place at night, though some interventions may require closures lasting several days. The maintenance includes cleaning and technical inspections of cameras and variable traffic signage.

NDS has issued a warning regarding driver behavior, noting that dozens of collisions or near-misses occur during scheduled maintenance due to motorists ignoring temporary traffic signs and entering closed tunnels or lanes. Rastislav Droppa, Deputy Chairman and Operating Director of NDS, emphasized that these services are essential for ensuring technological functionality and motorist safety.