by InTrieste
As winter approaches, city authorities in Trieste convened a coordination meeting this week to finalize preparations for the municipal Piano Neve, or snow emergency plan, which will take effect on December 1. The meeting, held at the Local Police headquarters on Via Revoltella, brought together all key participants involved in managing potential snow or ice emergencies, including the Municipality of Trieste, AcegasApsAmga, EDRfvg, FVG Strade, Anas, Trieste Trasporti, and Global Service (Edison Facility Solutions Spa and Siram Spa).
Officials reviewed the operational framework of the plan, which outlines personnel responsibilities, emergency contact networks, and the deployment of vehicles and equipment. Participants emphasized the importance of coordinated action and community involvement in minimizing disruptions during severe weather events.
“This meeting was essential to refine our joint response to snow and ice emergencies,” said Caterina de Gavardo, Trieste’s Councillor for Public Safety. “Our goal is to update strategies based on citizens’ needs, establish clear priorities for intervention, and ensure public safety by preventing accidents and reducing inconvenience. The Local Police Operations Center will coordinate emergency responses, but the participation and awareness of residents remain vital.”
One of the key changes this year is the expansion of the Local Police’s active presence across the city. Patrol units will now operate 24 hours a day, providing on-site assistance and allowing faster response times in case of emergencies.
Trieste’s snow management plan relies on a network of public agencies and service providers that have developed strong operational synergy over the years. This collaboration has proven effective not only for snow-related issues but also in responding to other types of weather alerts, which have become increasingly frequent.
In the event of a snow warning, each entity will activate its own procedures. Road operators such as AcegasApsAmga will begin salting major routes—starting with roads leading to hospitals—before clearing access to schools and public transportation routes. Local Police patrols will monitor conditions across the city, from the Karst Plateau down to the waterfront, and relay real-time updates to the central command.
The Local Police Operations Center will serve as the coordination hub, activating all relevant departments and partners when needed. Responsibilities are divided as follows:
- Municipal Departments:
- Public Safety and Civil Protection: Oversees critical monitoring, emergency interventions, and coordination with volunteer teams assisting in road closures and salt distribution.
- Public Works and Environment: Ensures roads are cleared and access to public buildings is maintained.
- Education: Coordinates snow removal around schools to maintain operations.
- Social Services: Secures access to nursing homes and care facilities.
- Social Media Team: Provides continuous public updates through official channels.
- Public and Private Partners:
- AcegasApsAmga and Other Road Operators: Conduct preventive salting and snowplowing operations according to priority maps.
- Trieste Trasporti: Works to maintain regular public transport service, informing the public of any route changes or suspensions through city and company channels.
The Municipality of Trieste has published an informational poster with detailed instructions for residents on how to respond in the event of a weather alert.
As temperatures begin to drop, officials are urging residents to remain informed and to collaborate with authorities to ensure the city continues to function safely and efficiently throughout the winter season.
