Travelers in Italy should brace for disruptions as a national railway sector strike is set to take place on April 11 and 12, 2025. This strike, called by the USB Lavoro Privato union, will affect rail transport across the country, including freight services, for a full 24 hours. The strike will commence at 3:00 AM on Friday, April 11, and conclude at 2:00 AM on Saturday, April 12. It will impact the entire working day of April 11 for local public transport on rails.
In addition to the USB Lavoro Privato's strike, the Orsa union has announced similar actions during the same timeframe for Trenitalia staff involved in sales, assistance, and regional business operations in Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta. This includes mobile staff and those engaged in intermodal development. Furthermore, a general strike across all public and private sectors has been called by the Si Cobas union, which will also occur on April 11, aligning with the railway strike.
Travelers should note that trains already in transit at the time the strike begins will continue to their destinations if reachable within one hour of the strike's start. However, if they cannot arrive within that timeframe, they may stop at earlier stations. Trenitalia has assured that minimum transport services will be maintained, as mandated by the Guarantee Commission under Law 146/1990. This includes essential services during peak hours.
For those planning to travel during this period, it is advisable to check the latest updates on Trenitalia's official website. The company has promised to provide a list of guaranteed long-distance trains, which will be available in advance of the strike.
Specific details regarding the strike reveal that Trenitalia's regional rail services will be significantly affected, particularly routes managed by the company. The strike will also impact AV/IC long-distance routes, which are crucial for many travelers. However, networks such as Atac, Troiani/SAP, BIS/Tuscia, and Cotral are expected to operate normally, as these services do not involve the striking workers.
On April 23, 2025, a second strike is scheduled, this time affecting personnel at La Gardenia Appalti Ferroviari, part of the FSI Group. This protest has been organized by unions FILT-CGIL, FIT-CISL, and UILT-UIL, and will involve half a shift of strike for each work shift. The timing of this strike is expected to further complicate travel plans for passengers relying on rail services.
During the strike days, Trenitalia plans to ensure minimum essential service, particularly during peak hours. Services are guaranteed in the morning from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again in the evening from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Trenord will also provide limited services during similar peak times, focusing on high-traffic routes.
Travelers are encouraged to arrive at stations well in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. In the case of cancellations, passengers should consider alternative transport options and stay informed through official railway channels.
As the strike approaches, the unions involved have yet to fully disclose the underlying motivations for the industrial action, but it’s clear that the coordinated efforts signify a broader discontent within the railway sector. With two significant strike dates in April, passengers are urged to stay updated and plan their journeys accordingly.
In summary, the upcoming strikes on April 11 and 12, along with the additional strike on April 23, highlight ongoing tensions within the Italian railway system. As unions advocate for better conditions and services, the impact on travelers remains a key concern. Those intending to use rail services during these dates should prepare for potential delays and cancellations, ensuring they have the latest information at hand to navigate the disruptions.
