Milan's Tram Challenges: Balancing Iconic Heritage and Modern Demands

Amidst Milan's iconic trams and rising living costs, the ATM strives to address a shortage of drivers. Offering incentives has helped hire 607 drivers, yet the company still faces a significant shortfall. The driver shortage remains a pressing issue across Italy, impacting public transport efficiency.

In Milan, the famed Carrelli trams serve as both a symbol of the city and a transport challenge. As living costs surge, the local transport company ATM faces a significant driver shortage, a situation echoed across many European cities.

The ATM has initiated various strategies, including paying for transport licenses, offering rent support, and establishing housing projects. These incentives helped recruit 607 drivers last year, but the company still contends with a shortage of approximately 300 drivers.

The issue is not isolated to Milan. Across Italy, the shortage reaches 8,000 to 9,000 drivers, exacerbated by competition from other sectors and demands for higher salaries. Public transport operators continue to seek solutions to this persistent problem.

(With inputs from agencies.)