A significant train strike disrupted travel across Italy on a scorching Thursday, impacting commuters and tourists alike. Even high-speed rail lines, typically unaffected during such work stoppages, experienced cancellations, creating chaos during peak tourist season.

While Transport Minister Matteo Salvini intervened to shorten the two-day strike, the disruption still caused widespread cancellations throughout the country. Major stations like Milan’s central hub saw numerous Trenitalia services cancelled, leaving passengers stranded.

State-run Trenitalia issued warnings about substantial service disruptions, including cancellations and delays affecting high-speed Frecce lines, Intercity trains, and regional services. Private rail operator Italo published a list of guaranteed operational trains on its website.

Passengers faced long queues at ticket offices, struggling to find alternative transportation. One traveler, Roberta Riccitiello, found her high-speed train from Rome to Naples cancelled. Facing a much longer journey on a regional train, she expressed frustration about the impact on her work schedule.

The strike, organized by major Italian unions, highlighted concerns over staffing shortages, excessive overtime, low wages, and challenging working conditions. Unions called for improved working conditions and a constructive dialogue within the rail transport sector.

Minister Salvini explained his decision to reduce the strike's duration, emphasizing the need to avoid stranding a million Italians in extreme heat. He committed to facilitating discussions between rail companies and unions to address worker concerns while minimizing disruption for the public.

Despite the inconvenience, some travelers, like Philip Rially from Scotland, remained optimistic, viewing the strike as a temporary setback. He expressed patience and understanding, acknowledging that such disruptions are sometimes unavoidable.