Tourism in the Pustertal: New solutions to traffic and housing problems!

Tourism in the Pustertal: New solutions to traffic and housing problems!

The current challenges of tourism in South Tyrol are the focus of discussions among the business associations in the Puster Valley. These oppose the blanket condemnation of the industry and emphasize that problems such as traffic congestion, high property prices and rising costs of living are not exclusively due to tourism. How South Tyrol News reports, a survey by the State Institute for Statistics (ASTAT) shows that the majority of traffic on the Pustertal state road is caused by domestic vehicles. Truck traffic is primarily classified as destination traffic that is necessary to supply households and businesses in the valley.

An analysis by the University of Bolzano also shows that traffic growth in recent years is closely linked to population growth and increasing economic performance. These connections are often overlooked when property price developments are discussed. According to the associations, the problem of high housing costs is not only the result of tourism, but is significantly influenced by the limited buildable area in South Tyrol and the strong demand in certain metropolitan areas. Platforms like Airbnb also contribute to price pressure.

New approaches to traffic and tourism regulation

In view of this complex situation, the business associations are calling for less blame and a joint development of solutions. The role of tourism in rural areas is crucial because it secures numerous jobs and helps maintain lively town centers. The problem of overtourism is seen as understandable in certain places, especially during high season, but traffic problems in the Puster Valley in particular are the main cause of the feeling of overload.

To counteract this, the tourism industry has taken measures such as introducing a bed cap and regulating hotspots. A concern that has now reached the political level: the state parliament has decided to ban beds in order to counteract mass tourism in the Dolomites. This was done by BR.de taken up, where the discussion about a future-oriented tourism concept 2030+ is also mentioned.

The first steps not only include setting an upper limit for beds, but also implementing a quota, especially for hotspots such as Lake Braies. Over 17,000 visitors were counted here on peak days, a number that significantly increases traffic and environmental pollution. Positive aspects of the quota are already visible, as it controls vehicle traffic and crowds and thus contributes to relief.

Growth and preservation of natural resources

The average length of stay in South Tyrol is 3.5 nights; an extension of just one night could reduce traffic by up to 20%. This idea is supported by industry players. The managing director of Dolomiti Superski, Andy Varallo, is calling for not only an expansion of the slopes but also more water storage for artificial snow and new cable cars. At the same time, however, there is also resistance: Josef Oberhofer criticizes the state funding practice for cable cars and calls for a closer examination with regard to climate protection.

The discussion about the new construction of the Santnerpasshütte in the Rosengarten also raises questions; Marlene Roner advocates a general stop to expansion in order to protect natural resources. Meanwhile, the UNESCO Commission has so far remained silent regarding the World Heritage title. There is also a special focus on a documentary that will be broadcast on Arte on September 26th and deals with the topics of the threatened Dolomites.

It becomes clear that a differentiated view of the situation is necessary. Tourism has both positive and negative impacts, and it is important to work together on solutions that balance the preservation of nature with the needs of the economy and the population.