In Naples, the phenomenon of so-called "garbage markets" continues to grow unchecked, transforming streets and sidewalks into veritable illegal vending zones. Despite law enforcement interventions, illegal trading remains a daily emergency, especially in the historic center, where public order and safety often take a back seat.
The most serious incident occurred on Via Pasquale Stanislao Mancini, in the heart of the Maddalena neighborhood: a 118 ambulance from ASL Napoli 1 Centro was stuck in traffic caused by the illegal market, amid crowded crowds, merchandise strewn across the asphalt, and unauthorized vehicles.
"We can't walk on the sidewalks or park to get home. Even after several reports, no one has intervened," said an exasperated resident.
Via Rosaroll and Via Mancini: two streets symbolic of a widespread phenomenon
Protests also come from Via Rosaroll, where every weekend the sidewalks are occupied by makeshift stalls and objects salvaged from the garbage. This situation daily degrades an area near Porta Capuana, one of the city's main tourist gateways.
Green-Left Alliance MP Francesco Emilio Borrelli raised the alarm again, speaking of a problem that is "turning into a social emergency."
"The image of the ambulance trapped in the chaos of the Via Mancini market is proof of how widespread lawlessness is trampling on every rule, to the point of preventing vital emergency interventions," Borrelli denounces. "These markets are mushrooming: from Via Rosaroll to Via Mancini, and into other sensitive areas of the city. We can no longer ignore a phenomenon that threatens the safety and liveability of residents."
The MP added that he personally went to the scene to request the intervention of the local police: "The intervention, when it occurs, often works. But without constant checks, the problem recurs within hours."
"Structural measures and a permanent presence are needed." For Borrelli, sporadic operations are no longer sufficient: "We need continuous checks, deterrents, cameras, and above all, a permanent presence in the most affected areas. The health and safety of citizens cannot be jeopardized by lawlessness."
The case of the stalled ambulance thus becomes the symbol of a city that demands concrete and lasting interventions, so that the streets can once again be livable and, above all, safe.
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