Naples, February 25 – A significant landslide in Via Napoli, Oregina district, has led to the collapse of a retaining wall beneath an apartment building, forcing the evacuation of 52 residents. The incident, which occurred in the night between February 18 and 19, highlights the ongoing fragility of the local terrain, with another similar event reported last Friday in Via Caffaro and a minor landslip today in Fabbriche.
Sensors to Monitor Building Stability in Via Napoli
Today, Wednesday, February 25, marks the beginning of the installation of specialized sensors designed to monitor the structural integrity of the affected building in Via Napoli. The engineer appointed by the condominium has informed the Municipality that initial reliable data from these sensors is expected within approximately ten days. This crucial monitoring will determine the future stability of the structure and the safety of its inhabitants.
Uncertainty for Displaced Residents
The 52 displaced residents face an uncertain future, as there is no clear timeline for their potential return home. Their re-entry is contingent upon a technical report confirming the absence of danger. Only after such a report is submitted and approved will the Municipality issue an ordinance to revoke the evacuation order.
During a city council meeting on Tuesday, February 24, councilors Vincenzo Falcone (Noi Moderati) and Marco Mesmaeker (M5s) raised concerns about the situation. Massimo Ferrante, Councillor for Civil Protection and Public Works, emphasized that the issue stems from a lack of maintenance, particularly concerning private properties.
“Recent events unequivocally indicate that the problem originates from inadequate maintenance,” stated Ferrante. “The municipal administration cannot assume responsibility for maintenance that falls under private ownership, but it must find ways to assist property owners, for example, through access to national funding. Laws have been enacted for energy efficiency and building facades, but no one has addressed their foundations.”
When Can Residents Return Home?
The evacuation of the building in Via Napoli allowed residents only brief, supervised access with firefighters to retrieve personal belongings. Ferrante clarified the procedure for their return: “In these situations, the prohibition comes from the fire department and public safety, which is a branch of civil protection. The prohibition can only be revoked by ordinance if the technicians appointed by the condominium, as this is a private matter, can demonstrate to public safety with a specific report that a dangerous situation no longer exists.”
Therefore, the timeline for residents’ return depends entirely on how quickly the condominium’s appointed technicians can provide these conclusive findings. Ferrante also recalled that the issue of geological instability had been discussed in previous condominium meetings, as cracks in the retaining wall had reportedly been present for some time.
Mario Mazza School Suspends Classes
Nearby, the Mario Mazza school has suspended classes as a precautionary measure. However, the city council has clarified that the school building itself is not at risk of structural damage, and the Municipality has no plans for its closure. The decision to suspend classes was made solely by the school’s management.
The recurring landslides underscore the urgent need for improved maintenance and preventative measures in Naples, particularly in areas identified as geologically vulnerable. Authorities are exploring options to support private owners in addressing these critical maintenance needs to prevent future incidents and ensure public safety.
The incident in Via Napoli serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by geological instability in urban areas and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard residents and infrastructure.
