Andrea Orlando Calls for Urgent Investment in Ligurian Rail Infrastructure

In a public meeting held in La Spezia, regional center-left coalition leaders highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades on the Pontremolese railway line, a critical route for both passenger and commercial traffic. The event, part of a broader initiative across Liguria, emphasized the line’s underdevelopment and the necessity of immediate action to secure funding.

Funding Challenges and Political Dynamics

Andrea Orlando, former minister of Labor and regional councilor for the Democratic Party in Liguria, stated that the Pontremolese railway requires significant investment to meet current demands. “The line is essential but underutilized compared to its potential,” Orlando said in a social media video. He noted that recent funding for upgrades to Aulla resulted from his legislative efforts, but additional resources are needed for the Parma-Vicofertile route, which faces insufficient allocation.

Orlando criticized remarks by Frijia, who accused him of inaction during his tenure. “This is false,” Orlando countered, citing his role in securing funds for the Pontremolese line. However, he acknowledged that current resources for the Parma-Vicofertile corridor are inadequate and risk being redirected to other projects, including the Strait of Messina bridge, which was rejected by the European Union.

Regional Disputes and Calls for Collaboration

The debate has sparked tensions. Peracchini pointed to Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna as the problem. Tuscany’s President Eugenio Giani expressed willingness to contribute, despite the Parma-Vicofertile route falling outside his region.

Bucci insisted on the need for a business plan before allocating regional funds. Orlando dismissed this requirement, arguing that input from port operators and passengers—many of whom face two-hour journeys from La Spezia to Parma—demonstrates the project’s urgency. “Demanding a business plan risks weakening leverage with Ferrovie dello Stato, which faces pressure from politically stronger regions,” he said.

Proposed Solutions and Future Steps

Orlando proposed searching for resources to insert in the 5% counted as military spending. He also emphasized the historical role of the Pontremolese line in serving the arsenal and the military base of La Spezia, urging regional cooperation to prioritize its development.

“We must convene around a table, intervene immediately to not lose the funds on the Parma-Vicofertile and relaunch the Pontremolese,” Orlando concluded.