Rail travel across Italy is expected to face widespread disruptions as a nationwide railway strike is set to begin at 9pm on Sunday, July 7, and continue until 6pm on Monday, July 8.
The strike is expected to affect all major train services, including long-distance routes and airport connections, potentially stranding thousands of passengers across the country.
The strike, which involves national rail workers, was announced by Italian transport unions and is expected to significantly disrupt the normal train schedule.
The action includes employees of Trenitalia and other regional operators, who are demanding improved working conditions and better contractual agreements.
In response to the announcement, Bulgaria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a warning to Bulgarian citizens currently in Italy, whether residing short-term or long-term, urging them to monitor updates on train schedules and consider alternative travel plans.
“In order to minimise inconvenience to passengers, on July 8, between 6am and 9am, minimal service will be guaranteed on regional railway lines,” the Bulgarian ministry noted. However, service outside of this
window is expected to be limited or completely halted on many routes, particularly those connecting key transit hubs such as airports.
Passengers planning to travel to or from airports including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, and Venice Marco Polo are advised to confirm their rail connections in advance or seek alternate modes of transportation such as shuttle buses or taxis.
Transport unions argue the strike is necessary to highlight longstanding issues in staffing, safety, and compensation across Italy’s railway system. Previous negotiations with government officials and railway companies have failed to result in an agreement, prompting this latest wave of industrial action.
The Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has not yet announced any interventions to halt or mediate the strike, but authorities continue to coordinate with operators to ensure some level of essential service, particularly during peak morning travel hours.
Travelers, especially tourists and foreign nationals, are encouraged to frequently check official railway websites such as Trenitalia and Italo, or follow updates from their respective embassies.
The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry also recommended that citizens travelling within Italy during this period register with the consular services or stay in touch with local Bulgarian diplomatic missions for updates and assistance if needed.
With summer holiday travel in full swing, the timing of the strike is expected to cause significant challenges, highlighting once again the impact of labor unrest on Europe’s transportation networks.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members