Trentino school bus rules spark controversy in Fiavè

The school year has commenced in Trentino, Italy, with a dedicated transportation service launched for over 20,000 primary and middle school students. The service, organized by the Autonomous Province of Trento and Trentino Trasporti, covers various provincial areas, including peripheral and mountainous zones.

However, strict distance regulations have sparked local controversy in the municipality of Fiavè. Under provincial guidelines, students must live at least one kilometer away from their school to qualify for the bus service. This rule has denied transportation to three elementary students living only 960 meters from their school in Stumiaga.

Parents have expressed significant concern regarding the safety of the commute, noting that the route requires walking along a heavily trafficked state road (SS 421) that lacks sidewalks and is frequently used by heavy trucks and agricultural vehicles. Fiavè Mayor Beniamino Bugoloni criticized the rigid application of the kilometer limit, suggesting that the local bus, which is currently at its 20-seat capacity, could potentially accommodate the students as it already passes through their area.