iMONITRAF! Political network event: New impulses for the iMONITRAF! cooperation
On April 3rd, political representatives from Tyrol and Central Switzerland gathered for an iMONITRAF! networking event in Amsteg/Erstfeld, Switzerland. The event focused on addressing the pressing challenges of transalpine transport and exploring future strategies to enhance the cooperation among Alpine regions. Twenty years after the launch of the iMONITRAF! cooperation, the event highlighted the still urgent needs to find joint solutions for limiting the negative effects of transalpine freight and passenger transport.
The meeting provided a platform for René Zumtobel, Member of the Regional Government of the State of Tyrol, and Céline Huber, Member of the Regional Government of the Canton of Uri representing Central Switzerland in iMONITRAF! - to discuss current “hot topics” such as capacity and crisis management and to share experiences related to modal shift policies as implemented on the two most affected transit corridors Brenner and Gotthard. The discussions were enriched by visits to two significant sites: the Gotthard Base Tunnel and the Heavy Traffic Control Center in Erstfeld.
The 57km long Gotthard Base Tunnel, operational since 2016, exemplifies Switzerland's commitment to shifting freight transport from road to rail. The visit allowed participants to gain firsthand insights into the operational aspects and benefits of such large-scale projects.
At the Heavy Traffic Control Center in Erstfeld, participants observed the rigorous checks conducted on trucks that cross the Alps on the Gotthard corridor. These controls play a crucial role in enhancing road safety and promoting modal shift through the strict enforcement of rules and thus contribute to levelling the playing field for rail transport.
The meeting also underscored the need for cost transparency between road and rail to make rail transport more attractive. Both political representatives emphasized the importance of forward-looking traffic solutions and integrated approaches to manage transit effectively. The exchange of experiences and best practices among Alpine regions is vital for developing innovative solutions that benefit all affected areas.
The concluding political round table saw decision-makers agree on future cornerstones for cooperation. Key priorities include effective capacity management for road and rail and clear incentives for modal shift. The meeting in Amsteg/Erstfeld sent a strong signal for continued cross-border collaboration, with renewed momentum for sustainable transit policies.