Drivers can now use part of Hungarian motorway under construction: here’s why
A short, still-under-construction stretch of the M49 motorway in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County has been temporarily opened to traffic in mid-September. The move was necessary due to the closure of Route 49, thereby maintaining connectivity to the M3 motorway.
Two-kilometre test section for drivers
As of 15 September, motorists can use a newly built section between Őr and Jármi, from the 7+700 to the 10+200 kilometre markers, roughly two kilometres in length, SZON reported. One lane has been opened in each direction between the Jármi roundabout and the M3, ensuring access to the motorway.
This traffic diversion became necessary due to surface strengthening and correction works on Route 49. The temporary arrangement is expected to remain in place until August 2026, according to VG.
Filling a gap: fast connection towards Romania
The M49 is a strategic development designed to link the M3 motorway to Satu Mare via Csenger. The project not only extends Hungary’s domestic transport network but also creates a new express route towards the Romanian border.
This is of particular importance to the region, as the bulk of international traffic currently relies on the frequently congested and slow Route 49. Once the M49 opens fully, it is expected to cut travel times significantly and improve road safety.
Strengthening cross-border links
New express routes are opening not only eastwards, but also westwards: Austria has just inaugurated the new S7 section, which directly connects to the A2 motorway. Alongside Hungary’s M80 expressway, this development now provides a full motorway link between the two countries.
As a result, recent months have seen growing cross-border connections both to the east and west, which will improve transport links in the long term and support economic and trade cooperation.
How long will the current arrangement last?
Although drivers can now temporarily use part of the M49 motorway, full completion is still some way off. The current traffic arrangement is likely to remain in place until summer 2026. Until then, the section will also serve as a real-life test to assess how the new route holds up under daily traffic conditions.
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