The Plöcken Tunnel: Controversial decision without citizen participation!

The Plöcken Tunnel: Controversial decision without citizen participation!

The debate about the planned Plöckentunnel The Plöckenpass is becoming increasingly emotional and is strongly influenced by lobby interests. Central questions relating to environmental compatibility, economic efficiency and traffic volume have not yet been comprehensively examined or published. The impression that the decision for the tunnel has already been made and that it represents an unavoidable solution is criticized from various quarters.

A bilateral expert commission is currently examining three variants for a new road connection over the Plöcken Pass. The basis for an informed decision should be provided in the autumn. Particularly controversial is the opinion of Cristina Amirante, infrastructure officer for the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, who spoke out in favor of a 4.1-kilometer-long high mountain tunnel at the end of July 2025. This decision was criticized across party lines in Friuli as it was taken without any transparent consultation.

Resistance and demands for transparency

A coalition of citizens' initiatives from the Upper Gailtal, Upper Drautal and East Tyrol as well as the Obergail-Lesachtal Alpine Club section vigorously contradicts the tunnel lobby's statements. According to the initiatives, the need for a transparent decision-making process that focuses on technical facts and environmental sustainability is called for. Reports that all the mayors of the Gailtal support the tunnel are incorrect.

The citizens' initiatives warn of the financial and ecological risks of tunnel construction. It is noted that tunnel construction would take at least ten years and could entail additional costs for heavy traffic and bypasses. An alternative proposal to build a new pass road is being discussed, which could be built more quickly and be winter-proof. In addition, financing the tunnel with EU funds is classified as theoretical and uncertain.

Public opinion and citizen participation

The topic of citizen participation is becoming increasingly important. A survey commissioned by Bertelsmann Foundation shows that 89% of citizens want more say in infrastructure projects such as the Plöckentunnel. Almost two thirds demand a more active information policy from the authorities. One in two respondents is willing to actively engage in citizen participation during the planning process, which underlines the urgency of involving the public in such larger projects.

The resistance to the Plöckentunnel shows not only a rejection of the project itself, but also a deeper skepticism about the way political decisions are made. With positive reinforcement, transparent and inclusive planning could help increase citizens' trust in political processes and promote sustainable development.