Tunnel Fire Prompts Strict Traffic Rules

Swiss authorities imposed tough new traffic rules as part of efforts to prevent another tunnel collision and fire like the one that killed at least 11 people last week.

Among other rules, trucks will be required to stay 500 feet apart on five major highways through the Alps as soon as signs are installed over the next three weeks, said Stefan Engler, a member of the administrative council in the eastern Swiss canton of Graubuenden.

Traffic through the long and winding San Bernardino Tunnel will be one-way, with the direction alternating at half-hour intervals beginning Monday. Officials said the measure might be extended to other routes.