Italy’s rail freight transport system is on the brink of an unprecedented crisis, with severe repercussions for the entire industrial network and local economies. This stark warning comes from Fermerci and FerCargo, two leading industry associations, which have issued an urgent appeal to the Ministry of Transport for swift action to prevent potentially catastrophic outcomes. In a joint letter, the presidents of the associations, Clemente Carta and Mauro Pessano, expressed deep concern over the "unsustainable conditions" facing industry operators, emphasizing that the situation has become critical.
The current crisis is exacerbated by ongoing disruptions to rail lines, caused by works related to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, which are expected to continue until 2026. According to the letter, these disruptions have already led to a reduction in transport capacity of more than 50% in 2024, with peaks reaching 80% during the summer months. Further complicating matters are the closures of alpine crossings, including the Frejus and San Gottardo tunnels, which have had a devastating impact on Italy's entire logistics system.
The repercussions of these challenges extend beyond transportation, affecting the broader economy. Rail freight traffic declined by 3.2% in 2023 compared to the previous year, with a further decline of 6.7% expected in 2024. The estimated economic damage for 2024 is around 90 million euros, with similarly grim prospects for the following two years. These alarming figures highlight a critical situation that, if not addressed promptly, could jeopardize the future of businesses in the sector and the approximately 15,000 workers employed.
“In this context, not only is the development of the sector and the rebalancing of transport modes being hindered, but the integrity and future of the businesses and workers involved are also at risk,” wrote Carta and Pessano. The associations reiterated their willingness to engage with relevant institutions to identify and implement the necessary solutions to overcome this crisis as quickly as possible.
