Such measures are being considered to reduce the risk of coronavirus contagion on public transport.
Gtres
Gtres

Italy is now well into the frequently talked about phase 2 where the population are beginning to "live with" the virus. However, according to experts, the key to the containment of the virus is the correct management of movement, with particular attention being paid to public transport. For this reason the government is considering the introduction of a bonus for the purchase of bicycles and electric vehicles in the country.

This was announced by the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Paola De Micheli, to the Transport Commission during a hearing on the effects of coronavirus on the transport sector in parliament: "The recognition of an alternative mobility voucher or bonus for residents in metropolitan cities and urban areas with more than 50,000 inhabitants, up to a maximum of 500 euros for the purchase of bicycles, including pedal-assisted bicycles, as well as vehicles for personal mobility with mainly electric propulsion, and scooters, is under study and in the final stretch".

De Micheli also wanted to specify that this is a measure aimed at the entire population, not linked to income parameters and that it will be available to anyone who requests it. The measure is being prepared with the Minister of the Environment Sergio Costa and was born from the need to manage the situation during phase 2, which saw about three million people moving with 10% of them on public transport.

Among other things, the incentive for the purchase of bicycles, that was part of the bonus mobility scheme for scrapping cars and motorcycles, was already on the table in the climate decree which had arrived in the "Gazzetta Ufficiale" (Official Gazette) even at the end of 2019. However, the implementation of the measure was delayed due to the coronavirus emergency.

According to what the Italian news agency, ANSA, has learned from ministerial sources, the technical meetings between the four ministries involved of Environment, Finance, Economic Development and Transport are practically concluded and the procedure could be unblocked as early as the end of this month.

Article seen at: Buono bici e monopattini fino a 500 euro (ANSA)