Ensuring Secure Transportation of People and Freight
Article: Italian Railways Fortify COVID-19 Response, Plan for Post-Pandemic Restart
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The Italian State Railways Group, also known as Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane (FS), has taken a proactive approach to battle Covid-19, prioritizing the well-being of its employees and ensuring safe transport for passengers and cargo. The railways group is gearing up for a post-pandemic resurgence, with major infrastructure investment plans slated for this year, encompassing railways and roadways.
Medical Aid and Technical SupportFerrovie dello Stato's efforts in the fight against Covid-19 extend to offering complimentary travel on Frecce and InterCity trains for healthcare professionals recruited by Civil Protection. Further, FS Technology has made its research and development computing centers and data processing resources available to Covid-19 research laboratories.
Safety Measures on Board and at StationsFor over a month, targeted cleaning campaigns have been carried out, particularly in major city stations, which are sanitized every night. To maintain distance and prevent crowds, waiting rooms remain closed. Additionally, Trenitalia's trains have undergone enhanced sanitation and hygiene procedures, including the installation of hand sanitizer dispensers.
Enhanced Passenger Control and Seating ReservationsThermoscanners are being installed for passenger control by healthcare authorities at select stations. In response to the pandemic, Trenitalia has also activated a new seating reservation system for Frecce and InterCity trains, developed by FS Technology, which ensures strict adherence to safety distances. Furthermore, to facilitate better planning, the deadline for ticket refund requests has been extended.
Beyond the Pandemic: Infrastructure InvestmentsRecent developments include a 400 million euros bond issue with Eurofima, which will likely fund various infrastructure projects, although specific details are not yet provided. FS subsidiary Trenitalia is also expanding its European rail network, offering environmentally friendly alternatives to air travel through initiatives such as night train service from Marseille to Rome and high-speed links to Germany and Austria by 2026. Additionally, FS is involved in a EUR 760 million investment deal with Greece to modernize the Greek railway network.
These investments reflect a broader strategy to upgrade rail infrastructure, improve connectivity across Europe, and promote sustainable travel options.
In the realm of Covid-19 response, the technical expertise of FS Technology has been utilized, with their research and development computing centers and data processing resources offered to Covid-19 research laboratories.
Demonstrating a commitment to the transportation industry beyond the pandemic, FS is set to make significant investments in infrastructure, reaching out to various sectors including finance, as evident in their 400 million euros bond issue with Eurofima.
