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Rail Crisis in Italy: Salvini Faces Resignation Calls Amid Ongoing Delays and Sabotage Allegations
Widespread Delays Impacting Passengers Across the Country
Italy’s beleaguered rail network has been facing increasing disruptions, with passengers experiencing widespread delays and cancellations. On Wednesday, delays were reported on regional routes in central Italy and intercity traffic between Rome and Naples. These disruptions follow similar incidents, including an electrical fault that caused an hour-long delay at Rome’s main railway hub and bad weather affecting services in the southern regions.
Opposition Leaders Demand Resignation of Transport Minister Matteo Salvini
In response to the growing crisis, Italy’s opposition leaders have united in calling for the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini. The Italia Viva party, led by former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, launched a petition urging Salvini to step down. They criticized the state of the rail network, citing “unbearable delays, continuous breakdowns, cancelled trains, and degrading travel conditions.”
Salvini Dismisses Criticism, Cites Years of Underinvestment
Salvini and his League party have pushed back against the criticism, arguing that the rail network’s issues are a result of years of underinvestment in infrastructure. The minister has defended his handling of the situation, despite increasing public frustration.
Sabotage Suspected in Rail Network Disruptions
Ferrovie dello Stato (FS), the state railway operator, has raised suspicions of sabotage. The company pointed out that many of the most disruptive incidents occurred during peak hours, amplifying the disruptions. FS has filed a complaint with the authorities, which may lead to a police investigation.
Political Support for Salvini Amid Growing Controversy
Despite mounting opposition, Salvini has received support from his political allies, particularly the far-right League and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party. Galeazzo Bignami, a parliamentary leader of Brothers of Italy, dismissed the criticism as part of a “denigrating and mendacious campaign” against Salvini.
Strikes and Technical Issues Continue to Affect Rail Services
Alongside regular technical problems, Italy’s rail network has been hit by repeated strikes over the past year, the most recent one occurring last Friday. While these strikes don’t typically halt all traffic, they contribute to long delays and further strain the system.
Government Efforts to Improve Rail Services
The Italian government is working to expand its fast service to the south and strengthen rail operations in the north, particularly around the port city of Genova. Despite the challenges, officials are determined to address the ongoing issues and improve the country’s rail infrastructure.