Matteo Salvini defends Seminario tunnel closure

Italian Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Matteo Salvini has responded to parliamentary inquiries regarding the closure of the Seminario tunnel on the SS63 highway in the Reggio Emilia province. Local administrations and the Union of Apennine Municipalities had requested a delay to the construction schedule to protect the summer tourist season and allow for the completion of alternative roadworks.

Salvini stated that the works, which involve fire safety upgrades and restoration costing 15 million euros, are non-negotiable and must proceed as planned. The closure, which began on August 7, is scheduled to last until April 30, 2027, to comply with safety regulations established by a ministerial decree from June 2025. The Minister confirmed that Anas, the road authority, maintains that the intervention is essential for infrastructure safety.