Terzo Valico rail project faces delays and worker layoffs

The Terzo Valico high-speed rail project is facing significant disruptions, leading to the activation of redundancy funds (cassa integrazione) for 300 workers. The layoffs affect employees at the Radimero (Arquata) and Val Lemme (Voltaggio) sites, which are critical for the construction of the Apennine tunnel.

Technical difficulties, including unforeseen rock formations and the presence of gas, have contributed to the delays. The situation follows reports that Webuild requested between 2.1 and 3 billion euros in additional public funding to continue works. Unions have expressed grave concern regarding the stability of jobs and potential redundancies among subcontractors.

The project is also under scrutiny regarding workplace safety. Following the death of worker Salvatore Cucè in February 2023, prosecutors' consultants identified serious safety deficiencies. This has led to calls for Extraordinary Commissioner Calogero Mauceri to address the Novi Ligure City Council to explain his previous statements regarding the incident and the current management of the infrastructure project.