As a remnant of what was once an interurban railway network exceeding 100 km in length, a tram line with a 950 mm gauge has been operating for many years at high frequency from the Laziali terminus to the eastern suburbs of the Italian capital. Gradually shortened over time, it has, since 2015, served only the approximately 6 km section to Centocelle, where the depot and maintenance workshop are located. Part of the route continuing on to Pantano is now served by the driverless metro line C.
In addition to some more modern articulated vehicles, the fleet of the Centocelle line still largely consists of various four-axle tramcars—some up to 70 years old with components of some even older rolling stock—that have been rebuilt multiple times and operate as both motorcars and trailer with driver’s cabine. All of them have high-floor entrance.
Conversion and Integration
For a long time, the future of the line remained uncertain. However, several years ago, a general decision was made to convert and integrate it into Rome’s wider tram network, which uses a standard gauge of 1,445 mm.
In February 2024, following several years of planning, an application was submitted for the modernisation and extension of the line from Centocelle. The project envisages its transformation into a “metrotram” line extending to Tor Vergata. In addition, the reinstatement of the section to Termini—gradually closed between 1940 and 1950—is planned in order to improve interchange connections with the main railway station and eliminate long transfer times.
Upon completion, the line is expected to have a total length of 12.8 kilometres and include 33 stops. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026, with the line planned to open in 2029.
An accident and its immediate consequences
On 4 March 2026, a collision between two trains occurred on the Termini–Centocelle line in the Ponte Casilino area, at a 50-metre-long, signalled single-track interlaced section. Fortunately, no one was injured; however, the incident led to a complete suspension of rail service on the line. A replacement bus service is operating.
At the same time, technical investigations were initiated to determine the cause of the accident and to assess the safety of the infrastructure. One possible cause under consideration is the failure of one of the drivers—operating older four-axle vehicles—to observe the signalling system.
Rail services remain suspended, and no specific date has yet been announced for their resumption. Any decision regarding reopening lies with the relevant safety authorities and will depend on the outcome of the technical inspections. Should extensive and costly refurbishment works prove necessary, the City of Rome may decide against restoring operations.
The primary reason for this is economic: investing in infrastructure that is already scheduled for closure appears unjustified, particularly as the line is due to be withdrawn for conversion in the near future, at the latest by July 2026.
We will continue to report on further developments.
A network scheme of Rome’s tramway system is available here:
https://www.urbanrail.net/eu/it/rom/tram/roma-tram.htm
