Commuters protest opaque train window films in Lombardy

A commuter committee in Varese has launched a protest campaign using black stickers with white text reading “Togliete queste pellicole” (Remove these films) on train windows. The protest targets the Laveno, Varese Nord, and Milano Cadorna rail line.

The protective films, originally applied to prevent scratches and vandalism, have become dirty and opaque due to weather, pollution, and contact with tree branches. Passengers report that the films make it difficult or impossible to see the landscape or identify stations for orientation, even on newer train models.

Organizers state the stickers are a peaceful way to draw attention to broader service issues, including systematic delays, canceled trips, overcrowding, broken air conditioning, and rising ticket prices. The campaign aims to signal dissatisfaction to Trenord and the Lombardy Region regarding the quality of service provided to daily commuters.