The tension on the project of the tunnel Between Minori and Maiori, on the Amalfi Coast, traffic is rising. ANAS has officially published the notice initiating the procedure for the imposition of a pre-expropriation restriction, relating to the disputed tunnel bypass on the SS163 (Torre Mezzacapo – NA286).
A move that triggered an immediate and harsh reaction from the "No Tunnel Minori–Maiori" committee, which has long opposed the project.
The "race against time" of observations
With the publication of the notice, a crucial and limited time window now opens: interested citizens, associations, and operators have only 30 days to submit formal written comments on the project.
It is precisely on this point that the committee asserts its vigilance, declaring that it "nipped in the bud the policy of advertising that was only necessary to comply with the law and avoid excessive participation."
The critical issues: from the Cave to the Amphitheater
The committee has launched a widespread appeal for "detailed observations" addressing the project's most critical points. The main concerns concern environmental, landscape, and cultural aspects, as well as the potential health impacts from noise and dust from the future construction site.
Opponents are targeting two key elements:
Sites of historical value: The "proximity to the Grotta dell'Annunziata, a protected site of high historical and identity value", is highlighted, in addition to the reported presence of other natural cavities in the excavation area.
Impact on the Maiori area: A question has been raised directly with the Mayor of Maiori, asking whether the administration has assessed the impact of the expropriation of 100 square meters of the gardens of the Convent of San Francesco and, more importantly, the occupation of 1.000 square meters intended for the port amphitheater.
For the committee, this latter eventuality represents "an occupation without certainty about the actual working hours and with the possibility of serious damage to tourism and commercial activities."
The appeal to politicians: "Enough talk!"
The "No Tunnel" movement doesn't shy away from a direct attack on the political class, especially in light of potential election campaigns: "Enough talk! Statements in the press and on social media aren't enough."
The invitation to politicians of all political persuasions is peremptory: "Send observations to Anas outlining the reasons for your opposition to the project," thus transforming declarations of principle into formal administrative acts.
The strategy: publicity and official documents
The opposition strategy will move along a dual track: public protest and legal action.
"We will take to the streets," the committee announced, confirming its intention to return to protests as it has done in the past. However, it acknowledges that mobilization alone "may not be enough."
For this reason, all citizens opposed to the project are asked to support their protest with formal action, not only by submitting comments within the legal deadline, but also by considering, "where appropriate," recourse to administrative justice.
The ultimate goal, opponents reiterate, is to stop what they bluntly call a "pointless urban and environmental devastation" through "large, informed, and determined" participation in protecting the landscape and quality of life on the coast.
Comments (3)
It's important that citizens actively participate in these decisions. The potential damage to the landscape and historical sites cannot be ignored, so every voice counts.
I think the issue is very complex, and there are many factors to analyze. Citizens' health must come first, and the impact of the construction site could be truly worrying.
I don't know if the tunnel is a good idea, but I think there are many things to consider before proceeding. Protecting the environment and historic sites is essential, and I hope the authorities listen to citizens' concerns.