Illegal racing in the Dolomites: crackdown on illegal activities

Congested roads, constant noise, thick air. This isn't the story of a metropolis in the middle of rush hour, but the increasingly common scenario among the Dolomite passes . What was once a haven of peace nestled between spectacular peaks is now overwhelmed by seemingly limitless tourist traffic. Cars and motorcycles, often concentrated on summer weekends, are severely testing the livability of these areas and the balance of the entire mountain ecosystem. Added to this are the new phenomena of illegal mountain pass races , rallies, illegal campsites, and modified vehicles that disrupt the tranquility.

Illegal races and other problems

Some come simply to enjoy the view, others to ride their motorbikes along the winding Dolomite passes. And then there are those who have transformed these landscapes into improvised tracks, giving rise to illegal mountain road races . These are no longer isolated incidents, but a trend that is increasingly worrying local authorities . The Dolomite passes, designed to connect valleys and offer breathtaking views, have become the scene of unauthorized motorized rallies, nighttime races, and reckless overtaking. Making matters worse are modified vehicles , which disrupt the silence with open exhausts and loud sound systems, and illegal campers who park where they shouldn't, contributing to environmental degradation. A dangerous mix that, in addition to jeopardizing safety, undermines the natural and touristic appeal of these mountains .

The difficulties of the municipality

Faced with this increasingly out-of-control situation, the affected municipalities are left with their hands tied. Resources are limited , both financially and in terms of personnel. Despite growing tourist traffic, the number of officers capable of patrolling the mountain passes remains insufficient, especially on weekends. And while reports from residents and respectful tourists are mounting, local governments are struggling to address a phenomenon that has reached regional proportions . South Tyrolean Councilor Daniel Alfreider has spoken clearly: a change of pace is needed, and concrete tools are needed. This is why the Province and Region have been requested to support them, with the aim of developing a shared strategy that can safeguard the area without completely penalizing mobility and tourism.

Tourism and the environment: the delicate balance

Regulating private traffic in such a heavily touristic area is no easy feat. On the one hand, there's the increasingly urgent need to protect a UNESCO-recognized natural heritage site ; on the other, there's the desire not to discourage tourism, which represents a vital economic driver for the entire Dolomite region. In between is the issue of individual freedom: many motorcyclists and drivers see mountain roads as one of the last spaces where they can freely indulge their passion for motorsports. But without clear rules and constant monitoring , that passion risks becoming detrimental. The challenge will be precisely this: finding a balance between freedom and respect, between the desire to explore and the need to preserve. And if today the Dolomites seem struggling, tomorrow they could be the testing ground for a new, more sustainable way of experiencing the mountains.