OMM Newsroom
Truck drivers protesting high diesel prices continued blockades across southern Italy on Thursday, prompting concerns about possible disruptions to the supply of goods, Anadolu Agency reported, citing ANSA.
Supply concerns persisted even after several drivers decided to suspend their protests. In Gela, however, truck drivers said they would maintain their blockade over rising fuel prices.
“We will continue until there are concrete results. Announcements are of no use to us. These stationary trucks represent our entire lives and our work,” they said.
Dozens of heavy vehicles remained at a roundabout on the SS 117 bis Gela-Catania road, at the entrance to Gela.
In recent days, other truck drivers had also parked their vehicles at a protest site established by farmers at the entrance to the town, in the province of Caltanissetta.
The mayors of Naples and Bari reportedly warned that protests could leave their cities paralysed.
The government has taken a firm stance, with those responsible for the blockades expected to be identified and reported to police. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi reportedly urged prefects and police chiefs to monitor possible “criminal infiltration” of the protests.
The Interior Ministry is also expected to ensure supplies of essential goods. Law enforcement officers are ready to escort truck drivers who request assistance.
The government is preparing a decree combining support measures for the road transport sector with funding for agriculture. The measure is scheduled to be examined by the Council of Ministers at noon on Thursday.
