On Saturday, thousands of individuals gathered in Messina to express their opposition to the Italian government's proposal to construct a bridge linking Sicily to the mainland. The project is estimated to cost 13.5 billion euros.

This was reported by AP.

The demonstrators voiced their concerns regarding the scale of the bridge construction over the Strait of Messina, citing earthquake risks, environmental impact, and potential mafia involvement.

The concept of a bridge connecting Sicily to the rest of Italy has been discussed for decades, yet every attempt at realization has been hindered by these contentious issues.

The Italian Minister of Transport, Matteo Salvini, a primary political supporter of the bridge, referred to it as «the largest infrastructure project in the West».

Salvini cited research findings indicating that the project could create up to 120,000 jobs annually and stimulate economic growth in southern Italy, as additional billions would be allocated for upgrading surrounding roads and infrastructure.

However, these arguments fail to convince opponents. There is particular outrage over the planned expropriation of property from approximately 500 families living in the construction zone.