Mountain rescue efforts: Orgosolo's deputy mayor: "Services first, sanctions later."

The debate over the proposal to charge reckless hikers for rescue operations has reignited in Sardinia. It was revived by the former mayor of Baunei and current Democratic Party regional councilor, Salvatore Corrias, who pointed out the bill, which has been stalled in the Regional Council for three years. However, this idea isn't convincing to everyone, especially those who live in and manage the mountain areas most exposed to accidents and calls for assistance.

Among the critics is Gian Nicola Taras, deputy mayor and councilor of the Municipality of Orgosolo, who warns : "Before discussing a law that provides for the payment of rescue services, we need to address the real critical issues affecting our mountain territories."

Taras clearly identifies the key issues: the development and maintenance of trails, clear and widespread signage—"currently completely absent in some sections of the Supramonte"—and the creation of tourist reception and support services, in close collaboration with local operators, qualified guides, and escorts.

According to the councilor, the priority must be safety, not fines: "Only through clear rules, adequate services, and shared management with those who work in the area every day will it be possible to concretely reduce the number of rescue operations—and therefore the related costs."

Orgosolo, like many other towns in the Supramonte region, is well aware of the attractive power of its mountains: "They are an extraordinary heritage, attracting thousands of visitors every year, not just in summer. It is our duty, as institutions, to make them safer and more accessible, rather than considering imposing burdens on those who, often in good faith, find themselves in difficulty."

The final message is therefore addressed to the Regional Council: "We need a shared path with local administrations, operators, and interested parties to jointly develop rules and services that will ensure everyone's safety."

The debate remains open: between the hard line of those who demand financial responsibility for reckless hikers and that of those who call for prevention , maintenance and reception as priority tools to avoid emergencies and reduce rescue costs.