On February 24, 2025, public transportation services across Milan are set to face significant disruptions due to a nationwide strike called by the USB Lavoro Privato union. The union’s protest is prompted by unaddressed requests for negotiations over the renewal of national labor contracts concerning autoferrotranvieri workers, particularly focused on contract terms for the period of 2024 to 2026.
According to ATM, the city's primary public transportation operator, services will not be guaranteed between 8:45 AM and 3:00 PM, as well as after 6:00 PM until the end of operations. This strike encompasses all forms of transportation operated by ATM, including buses, trams, and the metro lines.
The motivation behind the strike highlights the frustrations within the public transport sector over unfavorable contract conditions. The USB union cited the “lack of response” to their call for convening negotiations as the triggering factor for the action. They are advocating for significant wage adjustments to align with the projected cost of living increases over the next few years, which they argue have left workers at the mercy of inflation.
“For the failure to respond to the request for convening negotiations for the renewal of the national contract for autoferrotranvieri workers, we are taking action,” said union representatives. They emphasized the urgency of the situation, insisting, “We need a real contract renewal, covering at least inflation.”
This strike follows previous transportation issues earlier this month when Trenord train services also faced disruptions due to similar labor grievances. The build-up to February 24 has been tense, with commuters bracing for impacts reminiscent of earlier actions.
Throughout the day, reports will provide live updates on the status of ATM services, detailing which metro lines, including the red M1, green M2, yellow M3, blue M4, and lilac M5, alongside bus and tram operations, are affected. Passengers are advised to seek alternative transportation options or to plan their journeys based on the confirmed disruptions.
Milano residents have faced irregularities before due to labor actions, often bringing much of the city to a standstill. The current strike situation could compound travel challenges, especially for those relying on public transport for their daily commute, putting increased pressure on both the government and the union to resolve the matter quickly.
With public services being so closely tied to residents' daily lives, the significance of timely and effective contract negotiations can hardly be overstated. The strike on February 24 serves as not just another protest but as a cry for attention to the issue of fair wages and working conditions for public transport employees dedicated to keeping the city moving.