by InTrieste
The long-awaited return of the Opicina Tram, a beloved fixture of Trieste’s transportation network, continues to face significant delays. Initially suspended in 2016 following a derailment, the tram’s reactivation has been repeatedly postponed due to a complex array of bureaucratic and technical issues.
Recent reports from ANSA indicate that the city is now awaiting approval from Ansfisa, the national rail safety authority, which has introduced additional requirements that are further extending the timeline. The administration had previously assured that work would be completed by the fall of 2020, but these new regulations have delayed progress.
Mayor Roberto Dipiazza has voiced frustration over the situation, suggesting that legal action might be necessary. “This time, we will go to the Prosecutor’s Office,” Dipiazza told Il Piccolo, underscoring concerns over the handling of the project.
Public Works Commissioner Elisa Lodi has assured that the city remains committed to moving forward despite the setbacks. “We will proceed regardless,” she said. However, this commitment has not fully alleviated the growing frustration among residents. Former Friuli Venezia Giulia governor, Debora Serracchiani, has expressed her own frustration, likening the delays to the construction of “the Trans-Siberian Railway.”
The Opicina Tram, which provided a scenic route between Trieste and the plateau of Opicina, has been out of service for nearly eight years. The tram, which began operation in 1908 and was one of the few surviving examples of its kind in Europe, was celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its distinctive charm. The delays in its restoration are seen as emblematic of broader challenges in managing historical public assets.
The project has faced numerous hurdles, including halted construction, issues with permits, and investigations into the companies involved. As a result, the anticipated reopening has been delayed multiple times, leaving residents and local officials alike growing increasingly disheartened.
As Trieste waits for the tram’s return, there is no clear resolution in sight, and the future of this iconic public transport service remains uncertain.
