Basilicata officials demand emergency talks over rising diesel costs

Regional councilors from Movimento 5 Stelle in Basilicata have formally requested that President Bardi convene an immediate meeting between the regional government and local transport representatives. The request follows rising diesel prices, which averaged over 2.16 euros per liter in September, leading several companies to operate at a loss or halt operations.

Protests by transporters and farmers have already been reported in other regions, including Sicily and Calabria. In Basilicata, mayors from seventeen municipalities in the Vulture area have also called for a crisis meeting. Concerns have been raised regarding the impact on supply chains, including industrial supplies, agricultural products, and essential services for small inland communities.

Data from CGIA di Mestre indicates that fuel expenditure in Basilicata is projected to grow by more than 21 percent this year compared to 2025, marking the highest increase among Italian regions. Critics note the irony of the region facing high energy costs despite being a primary producer of oil.