Switzerland’s national road network recorded 68,040 hours of traffic congestion in 2025, marking a 22% increase over the previous year, according to data from the Federal Roads Office (OFROU). This surge in gridlock reflects a long-term trend where highway traffic has climbed by 140% since 1990, placing the infrastructure under significant strain as the network increasingly operates at its maximum capacity.
Why congestion is intensifying
Traffic disturbances are no longer confined to traditional rush hours, as many highway sections now face saturation throughout the day. Jérôme Jacky, a spokesperson for OFROU, noted that traffic jams are occurring more frequently, lasting longer, and becoming increasingly unpredictable. When a road network reaches its capacity limit, even minor incidents—such as a sudden braking maneuver, a vehicle breakdown, or a small accident—can trigger substantial, prolonged delays.
Future infrastructure investments and political debate
To address this congestion, the Swiss Federal Council has planned an investment of 9 billion francs for national roads by 2045. Initial infrastructure projects include widening two sections of the A1 motorway to six lanes: the stretch between Aarau-Est and Birrfeld in Aargau, and the route between Perly and Bernex in Geneva. These planned expansions have sparked intense debate among political stakeholders.
The Green Party, led by Lisa Mazzone, opposes the expansion, arguing that new lanes induce further traffic, noise, and carbon emissions. The party also contends that these projects contradict the outcome of a 2024 popular vote that rejected several previous highway extension proposals. Conversely, representatives for motorists, including Auto Suisse president Peter Grünenfelder, argue that these investments are insufficient. They maintain that the federal government unfairly favors rail infrastructure, despite the fact that motorists contribute a significant portion of the funding for road networks.
What happens next
The pressure on the Swiss road network is unlikely to abate in the near term. According to projections from OFROU, highway usage is expected to remain high in the coming years and may continue to grow. As the debate over funding and environmental impact continues, the government must determine how to balance these competing demands while managing a network that frequently hits its physical limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours of traffic jams were recorded on Swiss roads in 2025?
According to the Federal Roads Office (OFROU), there were 68,040 hours of traffic congestion recorded on the national network in 2025.
What are the specific expansion projects planned for the A1 motorway?
The Federal Council has prioritized widening two sections of the A1 to six lanes: the stretch between Aarau-Est and Birrfeld (AG) and the section between Perly and Bernex (GE).
What is the primary argument against the road expansion projects?
The Green Party argues that new lanes generate more traffic, noise, and emissions, and that such projects go against the 2024 popular vote that rejected previous highway extensions.
How do you view the balance between expanding road infrastructure and prioritizing public transport in Switzerland?