Major Asphalt Cracks on E4 Near Södertälje Cause Christmas Traffic Disruptions

Large cracks were discovered in the asphalt on the E4 highway south of Södertälje, between Hölö and Vagnhärad, causing significant traffic challenges just ahead of the Christmas holiday period in 2025. The damage was first noticed on Tuesday evening in the southbound lanes, attributed to ongoing utility work in the area. As a safety measure, the southbound lanes have been closed and traffic is being redirected to the northbound lanes, which now manage two-way traffic despite being designed for one direction only.

To ensure safety on the affected 2.5-kilometer stretch, the speed limit has been reduced to 50 kilometers per hour. Repair efforts began promptly and continue with a projected completion by 4 PM on December 22, 2025. However, the impact on holiday travel is already being felt, with slow-moving traffic and some congestion reported as of Saturday.

Daniel Mossberg, a spokesperson for Trafikverket, warned that substantial traffic jams are expected in the coming days due to these disruptions, amid typically heavy Christmas travel. Drivers are advised to prepare for delays and consider alternate routes when possible.

This situation underscores the vulnerability of vital traffic infrastructure during peak travel seasons, compounded by simultaneous utility work. Authorities are working to mitigate the impact quickly, but the combined road damage and traffic regulations are likely to affect many commuters during this critical holiday period.