Gewessler Criticism of Lobau Tunnel and Hanke During On-Site Inspection

During an on-site inspection with the German chairwoman of the Alliance 90/The Greens party, Franziska Brantner, as well as environmentalists and representatives of local initiatives, Gewessler reiterated: "The Lobau highway with the tunnel through the nature reserve is simply the worst of all possible solutions."

Lobau Tunnel: Gewessler Criticizes Lack of Transparency in the Ministry of Transport

Gewessler referred to the "Strategic Assessment" she commissioned as the then Minister of Climate Protection, in which various alternatives were examined. The result was against the implementation of the Lobau Tunnel. However, scientists recently criticized the methodological approach of this assessment, as reported by the "Standard." The Green Party leader repeatedly criticized Transport Minister Hanke, who has not yet disclosed the decision-making basis for the approved road project. She questioned what the Transport Minister based his decision on, claiming the Lobau Tunnel is "without alternative." As early as the beginning of October, the Greens demanded the publication of any expert reports. As reported by the "Falter," no specific decision-making bases were disclosed upon repeated inquiries to the Ministry of Transport. According to the ministry, the ongoing evaluation by Wifo and EcoAustria on behalf of Asfinag is not yet complete and will be available by the end of the year.

Ministry of Transport to Finalize Evaluation Report on Lobau Tunnel in Coming Weeks

In response to an APA inquiry, the Ministry of Transport again cited "the comprehensive EIA procedure, intensive discussions with experts, stakeholders in Vienna and Lower Austria, as well as technological advancements" as the basis for decision-making. It also referred to an already completed part of the evaluation by WIFO and EcoAustria on the S1 gap closure. The overall evaluation report, which also includes economic and social aspects, is to be finalized in the coming weeks and subsequently made publicly accessible.

(APA/Red)

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