The Soft Rope is at the center of a heated debate regarding the introduction of a toll scheduled for March 2025, as announced by Azione deputy Fabrizio Benzoni. The issue has resurfaced following the installation of informational signs on the Montichiari-Ospitaletto bypass, which indicate the imminent activation of the “free flow” system, allowing automatic payment via Telepass or subsequent billing for registered drivers. Despite protests from mayors of the Brescia municipalities and a recent mobilization organized by Azione, no viable alternatives have yet been found to avoid the toll, while the request for a meeting with Minister Matteo Salvini remains pending.
In response to this uncertain situation, Benzoni has announced a new parliamentary inquiry in the coming weeks, aiming to gain greater clarity on the matter. The possibility of the toll being introduced by Autovia Padana thus seems to be becoming increasingly concrete, raising concerns among citizens and local authorities.