Trucks rattle Swiss village: Gondo residents brace for passing lorries

Gondo, a small Swiss village nestled between steep rock faces near the Italian border, is grappling with a surge in heavy truck traffic. The Simplon Pass route, historically a vital artery for European freight, saw a record 104,000 trucks pass through last year, averaging 400 per day.

This increased volume significantly impacts the daily lives of Gondo's 71 residents. Sebastian Squaratti, who has run the Pension Bellevue for eight years, notes the challenges for his restaurant guests. "In the summer, we have to be careful to hold onto our glasses when trucks go by," he said, describing how gusts of wind from the passing vehicles can disturb diners.

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In the summer, we have to be careful to hold onto our glasses when trucks go by

The noise and pollution are major concerns. "And when the trucks go downhill, the brakes stink to high heaven!" Squaratti exclaimed. The village, situated directly on the route, endures the constant rumble and fumes, a stark contrast to its otherwise tranquil alpine setting.

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And when the trucks go downhill, the brakes stink to high heaven!