Italian MEP Gaetano Pedulla' (The Left) has submitted a written parliamentary question to the European Commission on 11 June 2026, challenging the use of EU funds for a new railway bridge over the Adda River between Paderno and Calusco. The MEP argues that the project, planned by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI), may contradict EU sustainable mobility objectives and the 'do no significant harm' (DNSH) principle.
The question asks whether any ERDF, Cohesion, or other EU funds have been requested or allocated to the bridge project, and whether the eligibility assessment considered the expected increase in traffic, air pollution, and noise. A study cited by Pedulla' estimates daily vehicle use could rise by 90% to 14,700 vehicles, including 2,000 trucks, leading to higher emissions in neighbouring municipalities.
Pedulla' also inquires about monitoring instruments to withdraw or redirect EU resources if a funded project conflicts with the Union's climate goals. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal its stance on the project's alignment with EU climate legislation.
The project could affect local residents (increased pollution and traffic), RFI (potential funding delays or conditions), the Italian government (need to justify infrastructure spending), and EU taxpayers (risk of misallocated funds).