Garda Investigates Electric Substation Fire, Considers Civil Party Claims

A fire broke out in an electrical substation near Via San Bernardo, in the cemetery area of Garda, cutting power to a significant part of the town for several hours during the peak of Ferragosto. Mayor Davide Bendinelli said he has called meetings with local trade associations to assess whether the municipality should take legal action, and he also outlined the service disruptions and their impact.

The incident has renewed attention on alleged recurring problems with the local power grid. The municipality reported that in recent months there have been voltage drops that may have damaged equipment at hotels, bars, restaurants and other businesses, as well as control units and inverters for photovoltaic systems. Bendinelli said similar issues were discussed two years ago after another substation fire in the historic center, and he criticized what he described as a situation that is no longer occasional.

The mayor added that the issue was already addressed in 2025 when regional and provincial Enel Distribuzione officials met in Garda to discuss investments in power lines, the replacement of underground infrastructure, and a modernization plan aimed at improving safety and efficiency. According to Bendinelli, the assurances received over the past year have not led to sufficient change, prompting a new round of talks with trade groups to evaluate the conditions for legal steps to protect Garda’s image and seek compensation for concrete damages.
Italian Version