As April approaches, the Italian transport sector braces for significant disruptions due to a series of planned strikes that could affect thousands of commuters. The wave of industrial action is set to culminate on April 11, 2025, when a 24-hour general strike is expected to paralyze public and private transport across the country, particularly in major cities like Milan.
The Si Cobas union has announced a general strike that will span both public and private sectors, potentially impacting transportation at every level. This includes local public transport services in Milan, specifically the buses, trams, and metro systems operated by ATM. While the exact details regarding guaranteed service hours are still pending, the strike is anticipated to create chaos for daily commuters.
Notably, the strike that was initially scheduled for April 1 has been revoked, providing a brief respite before the more extensive disruptions set for April 11. This upcoming strike is expected to last for 24 hours, with specific time slots that may vary by region.
In addition to the general transport strike, another significant event is scheduled for the same day. A 23-hour train strike has been called by Usb Lavoro Privato, which will affect railway personnel exclusively. This strike will commence at 3:00 AM on April 11 and conclude at 2:00 AM on April 12. It is poised to disrupt services provided by Trenord, Trenitalia, and Tper, leading to widespread delays and cancellations.
Adding to the unrest, Osr Orsa Ferrovie has organized a dual protest in the regions of Piemonte and Valle D’Aosta on the same day, further complicating the already tense transport situation. This series of strikes highlights the growing discontent among transport workers regarding working conditions, pay, and job security.
Moreover, earlier in the month, on April 8 and 9, another major strike is planned, which will involve railway personnel and local public transport workers. This initial strike will last for 24 hours, starting from 9:00 PM on April 8 until 9:00 PM on April 9, 2025. This sequence of actions reflects a broader trend of industrial action within Italy's transport sector, as workers seek to voice their grievances and demand better conditions.
The transport strikes come at a time when many Italians are still recovering from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Commuters, who have been gradually returning to their pre-pandemic routines, now face the additional challenge of navigating a disrupted transport network. The strikes are likely to exacerbate frustrations among the public, who rely heavily on public transport for their daily commutes.
As the situation develops, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has urged both unions and employers to engage in dialogue to find a resolution that would prevent the strikes from taking place. However, with tensions high and demands from workers remaining unmet, it remains to be seen whether negotiations will yield any positive results.
In the context of these strikes, the Italian government is under pressure to address the underlying issues that have led to this unrest. Workers are expressing concerns over rising living costs, stagnant wages, and inadequate working conditions, which have all contributed to the growing wave of strikes across various sectors.
As the April 11 strikes approach, commuters are advised to stay informed about service changes and potential disruptions. With the transport unions firmly committed to their actions, the likelihood of extensive delays and cancellations remains high, prompting many to seek alternative means of transportation.
In summary, the transport sector in Italy is gearing up for a tumultuous April, with a series of strikes planned that could significantly disrupt services across the country. As workers rally for their rights, the impact on commuters and the broader economy will be closely monitored in the coming weeks.
