Too hot, risk of blockages and malfunctions: Cagliari's public elevators to Castello are shutting down, by order, when they are most needed.
The Municipality announced this in a statement.
Starting July 1, 2026, the law states, "partial closures of some public elevators will come into effect. Specifically, the restrictions will affect the following three city facilities:
- the Scalette Santa Chiara lift will be closed every day from 2.30pm to 8.30pm;
- the Unione Sarda lift (top) will be closed every day from 10am to 1pm (on days with high temperature warnings, the closure will extend from 10am to 5pm);
- The Bastione Saint Remy elevator will be closed every day from 11:00 am to 3:15 pm (in case of a heat alert, the suspension will be extended from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm).
The provisions are contained in the ARST service order and include "the reduction of service for safety reasons related to the high temperatures, which are currently also affecting activities in the Sardinian capital."
The ARST provision "takes into account the technical limitations imposed on the operation of the systems, especially regarding the temperature inside the lift shafts and technical rooms. The temperatures recorded during the summer months may compromise the proper functioning of the lifts and the safety of users."
However, the Municipality warns, "alternative routes offered by public transport remain available, allowing you to reach and connect the historic Castello district with the rest of the city."
The Municipality announced that "technical solutions are being evaluated to reduce temperatures and allow for more extensive use of the facilities, even during the summer months. In the meantime, closing times may be modified based on changing weather conditions."
(Unioneonline)
