Yesterday in Bari and Corato: cars still stuck at level crossings, “increasing unsustainability of infringements”

Below is a press release issued by the railways of the north of Bari:

Once again we find ourselves forced to denounce the growing unsustainability of infringements at level crossings. Today alone, two other new episodes, now commonplace, have heavily influenced rail circulation and the quality of life of many travellers.

In the morning, we witnessed a violation of the Highway Code near our level crossing in Corato; in the afternoon, we instead recorded a demolition of the level crossing barrier near Fesca San Girolamo. It goes without saying that these two new events have once again caused serious delays to the entire railway movement, all due to the undisciplined driving of motorists.

As is known, unlike in the past, the application of ANSFISA regulations prevents the so-called “running on sight” of trains at the level crossing until it is attended and therefore definitively made safe. Clearly, unfortunately, even the timely activation of replacement buses, awaiting the resumption of railway traffic, is not always able to be immediate, as it is subject to technical times and external factors that cannot be foreseen.

The current situation requires immediate action to ensure a reliable public transport service, both in terms of punctuality and regularity. These irresponsible behaviors of motorists, in addition to being extremely dangerous, cause serious inconvenience to railway traffic, travelers and our staff.

We therefore also appeal to the competent authorities to intensify controls and adopt more severe measures against those who put road and railway safety at risk.

We remind all motorists of the importance of respecting the Highway Code and paying maximum attention near level crossings. The consequences of a violation can be very serious, not only for those who commit the violation, but also for those who suffer the consequences.

Such irresponsible behavior can no longer be allowed to jeopardize the safety and quality of life of all those who use public transport services on a daily basis.

The company is considering reporting motorists for upcoming violations for interruption of public service and for violating transport safety.