Italy: Rail and public transportation strikes October 4-7, 11, 12 /update 1

Event

Several transportation companies will experience service disruptions in October, affecting intercity and municipal transportation, particularly in Rome, Lazio, Abruzzo, Florence, and Fruili-Venezia Giulia. The first of several strikes is planned for Friuli-Venezia Giulia regional trains and set to begin at 22:00 (local time) on Thursday, October 4, until 22:00 on Friday, October 5. Additionally, SCNF railway workers will strike from 10:00 to 18:00 on Friday. Italy's high-speed train operator Italo NTV will also strike from 21:00 on Saturday, October 6, to 21:00 on Sunday, October 7.

Meanwhile, public transportation workers intend to stage work stoppages on Thursday, October 11, and Friday, October 12, affecting Florence, Abruzzo, and Lazio, including Rome. In Florence, local light rail workers will hold a 24-hour strike on October 11. On October 12, a Rome transport workers strike will likely last from 08:30 to 12:30 while other unions in Lazio and Abruzzo plan to strike 24-hours. Cancelations, service disruptions, and overcrowded conditions on alternate forms of transportation are likely during and following strike periods. Increased traffic congestion and demand for taxis is also likely.

Context

Transportation-related strikes are common in Italy and can be highly disruptive. However, in accordance with Italian law, minimum levels of services must be guaranteed during all strikes.

Advice

Individuals in Italy are advised to anticipate transportation disruptions and allow for additional time to reach their destinations.