Still no cameras on the Ma-10: When will the wait end in the Tramuntana?

Project fails to take off – residents keep waiting

If you drive the Ma-10 towards the Mirador de ses Barques early in the morning, you quickly hear what the problem is: engine roars, occasional screeching tires and the usual unrest of a mountain road that is too beautiful to be enjoyed slowly. The plan was a simple solution: 32 traffic cameras along the problematic stretches should improve safety. So far, however, it has amounted to nothing but paperwork.

What has happened so far

The Consell says it has agreed on an EU-approved camera model with the Spanish traffic authority DGT. Cost: around €1.2 million. The locations are to be concentrated at known danger spots – including the Mirador de ses Barques. But since the first announcement in March last year, the project has barely progressed. Tender procedures, approvals, coordination – the usual administrative brakes.

Those who live here or drive up often notice it. “We were promised things, but little changes on the road,” says a resident from Deià who prefers not to be named. She speaks of nighttime motorcycle gatherings, modified exhausts and cars treating the mountain like a racetrack. Noise is far from just a comfort issue – for many it is a matter of safety.

What the authorities say

From the administration it is said that the technical question has been resolved and the tender will follow “shortly.” Such phrases have a familiar ring on the island: they calm somewhat but also push the problem into the future. Formalities, checks and budget approvals are mentioned – and repeatedly the hope that installing the devices will ease the situation.

Practically this means for visitors: more beautiful views but not necessarily quieter roads. For residents it means continuing to keep watch, document noise and apply pressure. Citizen initiatives and local politicians are demanding speed in awarding the contract – not only because the cameras could help catch speeders, but also because clear rules and controls would bring back a piece of quality of life.

Short-term solutions are missing

In the meantime, temporary speed cameras or a stronger presence of the Guardia Civil provide some relief, but they are not a permanent answer. Some locals simply want more police presence in the evening hours, others hope the announced cameras will provide the necessary deterrent. Until then, the Ma-10 remains a part of the island that many love – and some fear.

If you plan to visit the Tramuntana at the weekend: keep your eyes open, slow down and be considerate. And for those who live here: keep asking. People get used to a lot, but not to the noise at their doorstep.