APCOM

When all the stretches of the high speed rail will be completed, Milano will be considered as a 7 million people urban area, also incorporating some parts of France and Switzerland. This is one of the assessments contained in an investigation on the socio-economic impact of the big railway works on Milano and its province that was carried out by the University Carlo Cattaneo and the consulting firm Clas on behalf of the local Chamber of Commerce.

A million and a half workers more than in the recent past will be able to reach Milano in less than two hours. According to the study, the economic activity induced by the tourist industry will enjoy a 4.8 million Euro growth (+19%). Also hospital treatment will benefit from the new fast connections, with 3.2 millions new users. Students and university staff will increase by 30%.

"A modern and efficient infrastructural system is a key condition for the competitiveness and the productivity of any area," explained Carlo Sangalli, the president of Milano's Chamber of Commerce. "As a matter of fact, an inadequate transport network is like a clay footed giant. The development of the railway accessibility will set Milano at the centre of Europe."