Naples – Taxi drivers protest in Piazza del Gesù, in the heart of the historic center of Naples, after the City Council's decision to relocate the taxi rank from one of the city's busiest central areas to Calata Trinità Maggiore.
A choice that triggered strong tensions among non-scheduled public transport operators, who felt "excluded and penalized".
“We are asking for an urgent meeting with Councilor Cosenza,” reads a note released during the protest organized in the square. At the center of the protests was the expansion of the outdoor spaces of a bar, which – according to the unions – would have occupied the historic area intended for parking taxi.
“We will ask for access to the documents to understand who authorized this change and with what criteria,” explain the taxi drivers’ representatives.
Tensions are also being raised by the official reason given by the Municipality, which justifies the move by classifying Piazza del Gesù as a pedestrian zone. “But at present,” the taxi drivers retort, “there is no ordinance confirming this status nor any formal ban on vehicle transit.”
Even taxi drivers who are not members of trade unions join the protest, underlining how "non-scheduled public transport is treated like the lowest wheel of the wagon". "Despite the fact that our taxis have the words 'Municipality of Naples' on them - we read in a note - we are systematically ignored by Palazzo San Giacomo, while bars and restaurants are given privileges, spaces and visibility".
The category also highlights the risk of damage to public service: "With the increase in tourist flows - they say - the parking spaces should be increased, not eliminated. The lack of regular parking spaces favors illegal taxi drivers, while authorized taxi drivers, subjected to tests and checks every year, are pushed to the margins".
Taxi drivers announce that the mobilization will not stop: "We are ready to fight in all locations. We will not remain silent while our presence is erased from the city center."
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Comments (3)
The taxi drivers of Naples are right to protest because the decision of the Municipality to move the taxi parking is very problematic. I hope that there will be a serious discussion between the interested parties to find a fair solution.
It is important to listen to the needs of taxi drivers, but also those of tourists and citizens. A balance must be found to improve the public transport service in general, without penalizing anyone.
Protests are a legitimate way to make your voice heard, but it is also essential to consider the reasons of the Municipality and the need for pedestrian areas. The situation is complex and requires attention.