In a move aimed at curbing drunk driving and reducing road accidents, Italy has initiated a pilot project offering free taxi rides for party-goers who have consumed alcohol. The project, running until mid-September, is being tested at six nightclubs across the country, spanning regions from Puglia to Tuscany and Veneto. Under this innovative scheme, individuals who appear intoxicated when leaving the venues will be subjected to an alcohol test. If found over the legal limit, a taxi will be summoned to ensure a safe journey home.
Funding for the initiative is provided by Italy’s transport ministry, with the brainchild behind the plan being Matteo Salvini, the country’s transport minister, deputy prime minister, and leader of the hard-Right League party. Salvini took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to announce the program, stating, “Free taxis at the end of the night for those who have drunk too much.” He emphasized that this practical approach aims to prevent road dangers and tragedies, suggesting that fines and laws alone are insufficient in curbing road fatalities.
Italy has been grappling with the issue of drink driving, which has been highlighted as a serious problem in the country by a 2020 report from the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC). Despite this, surveys have indicated a relatively high level of acceptance of drink driving compared to other European Union nations.
The trial has received positive feedback from party-goers and nightclub owners alike. Marco, a young man outside a nightclub near Jesolo in the Veneto region, expressed his approval, stating that the initiative could finally address the issue of accidents resulting from excessive alcohol consumption. Samuele Bucciol, the owner of the nightclub where the scheme was tested, reported that 21 individuals were safely transported home by taxis on the first night of the program. He praised the government’s thoughtful consideration of the nightlife sector and applauded the intelligent approach, providing revelers a safe alternative to driving under the influence.
The initiative signals a proactive effort by Italy to tackle drunk driving and promote road safety, while also highlighting the need for collective engagement in preventing accidents on the road. The success of the pilot project may lead to broader implementation across the nation to further enhance public safety and reduce the incidence of alcohol-related accidents.
sources By Agencies
