Mayor Gian Luigi Farris partially reversed his decision regarding the closure of the Capo Comino-Bèrchida pine forest. A week after issuing an order that completely closed the area due to fire safety concerns, the city administration has decided to revise the order, reopening access to residents and visitors. The pine forest will no longer be completely closed: it will be possible to explore it on foot and by bicycle. However, the ban on all motor vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, campers, and trailers, remains in place, with the exception of emergency vehicles and authorized vehicles.
The mayor himself announced the change in a message. "I also reviewed the measure with the authorities, seeking a balance between everyone's safety and the right to enjoy those places," Farris explained, emphasizing that he took into consideration the comments and criticisms received from residents following the announcement of the total closure. The decision continues to be motivated by the safety of the area, which is particularly vulnerable in the event of a fire. Among the critical issues highlighted by the Municipality are the presence of only one access point to the pine forest and a particularly narrow path, which could become a trap in the event of an evacuation. Another concern is the poor telephone coverage in the area, which would make it more difficult to call for help and coordinate rescue efforts during an emergency.
The strong influx of summer tourists is also impacting the decision. According to the administration, the presence of numerous visitors unfamiliar with the area could cause delays and hinder emergency operations in the event of a fire. "Keeping cars out means keeping escape routes clear," the mayor reiterated, indicating this as the cornerstone of the new measure. To ensure compliance with the ordinance, the Municipality has also announced the use of technological enforcement tools, clarifying that the goal is not to increase fines, but to protect a particularly delicate and frequently visited environmental heritage.
