Rome, February 8 – Train circulation on the FL5 Rome-Civitavecchia line was suspended on Sunday, February 8, following the collapse of a bridge parapet in Santa Marinella, a coastal town northwest of Rome. The incident occurred between Santa Severa and Civitavecchia, prompting immediate action from railway authorities and emergency services.
Circulation Halted After Parapet Collapse
The collapse, which reportedly caused no injuries, led to significant disruptions for commuters and travelers. The initial report indicated that the parapet gave way possibly due to heavy rainfall experienced in the preceding days. Technicians from RFI (Rete Ferroviaria Italiana) and firefighters were promptly dispatched to the scene to assess the damage and ensure safety.
The affected section of the railway line, specifically between Santa Severa and Civitavecchia, remains closed. As a result, commercial services have been reprogrammed, and substitute bus services have been activated to mitigate the impact on passengers. These buses are operating on the route between Santa Severa and Civitavecchia to provide alternative transportation.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Investigations
Upon notification, emergency teams, including RFI personnel and fire brigades, arrived at the site to manage the situation. Their immediate priority was to secure the area and assess the structural integrity of the bridge. While the exact cause of the collapse is still under investigation, preliminary observations suggest a link to the intense rainfall that has affected the region recently.
The incident highlights concerns about infrastructure resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions. Local authorities and railway operators are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine all contributing factors and implement necessary preventative measures for the future.
Impact on Local Commuters and Travel Plans
The suspension of train services has undoubtedly affected numerous individuals relying on the FL5 line for their daily commute or weekend travel. Passengers are advised to check real-time updates from Trenitalia or local transport authorities for the latest information on service resumptions and alternative travel options.
The activation of substitute bus services aims to minimize inconvenience, but extended travel times and potential delays are to be expected. This incident follows a period of challenging weather in the Rome area, with other reports of flooding and fallen trees, underscoring broader infrastructural vulnerabilities.
As of the latest reports, there is no immediate timeline for the full restoration of train services on the affected section. Authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety of the railway infrastructure before resuming normal operations.
Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves and investigations progress.
