Cross-border communications to end motorist misery?

(JB) Anyone who was stranded by last year's snow blizzards can breathe a sigh of relief after an information-sharing agreement was signed with highways agencies across the border.

It is hoped that by informing road authorities in the Grand Duchy about problems in Belgium and France, motorists will not be blocked on their commute.

Last year Luxembourg and neighbouring countries experienced overwhelming snowfall lasting more than a month. On a particularly bad day, French authorities closed the A31, leaving many motorists stranded and forcing them to sleep in their vehicles.

Authorities in Wallonia, France and the Grand Duchy have signed an agreement, obliging them to share technical information as well as weather alerts, road closures or restrictions for certain vehicles.

The agreement also ensures that authorities must carry out conference calls systematically with neighbouring countries which are likely to be affected, such as Germany.