What is the main goal of the Ticino river revitalization works?

The main goals of the Ticino river revitalization works are to maintain and adapt the riverbanks to increase the safety of the areas under construction, and to restore part of the river's original space, with a particular focus on naturalistic and landscape aspects, and to improve the aquatic habitat.

What is the role of the thematic trail 'Lungo il fiume'?

The thematic trail 'Lungo il fiume' was created to promote knowledge of the project and to raise awareness among the population. The route is enriched by eleven informative posts that illustrate the interventions carried out and their significance in relation to the natural development of the river and its interactions with the forest and aquatic fauna.

Revitalization of the Ticino River: Projects between Airolo and Rodi (cross-border guide)

Di Redazione Frontaliere Ticino · Published on 31 May 2026

View of the Ticino river between Airolo and Rodi with green revival interventions

Present the works of revitalization and hydraulic system improvement of the Ticino River in Alta Leventina, with an investment of 8 million CHF.

Context

In breve

Lavori di rivitalizzazione del fiume Ticino tra Airolo e Rodi

Investimento di 8 milioni di franchi

Inaugurato il sentiero tematico 'Lungo il fiume'

Interventi per la sicurezza idraulica e la tutela dell'habitat naturale

Fatti chiave

What: Rivitalization and hydraulic system works on the Ticino River
When: Started in 2023, completion expected by 2026
Where: Between Airolo and Rodi, in Alta Leventina
Who: Department of Territory, Alta Leventina Maintenance Consortium (CMAL), Ritom SA
Amount: 8 million francs

The works were presented this morning at the Audan lakeside in Ambrì, with the participation of the Department of Territory (DT), Alta Leventina Maintenance Consortium (CMAL), and Ritom SA. The event was attended by the State Councillor Norman Gobbi, the president of CMAL Valerio Jelmini, the director of Ritom SA Lucas Dürr, and the head of the Watercourses Office of the DT Laurent Filippini, along with numerous guests and citizens.

The project and its objectives

The project was initiated in 2015, in parallel with the renewal of the concession for the use of water at Ritom, which included the adoption of compensatory measures for the environment. In this context, the DT proposed to extend the works of river systemization over the entire stretch between Airolo and Rodi, assigning the responsibility and coordination to the CMAL, which also integrated protective measures against floods.

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Operational details

Environmental and landscape impact

The works carried out also include the 100,000 cubic meter demodulation basin, built by Ritom SA as part of the new Piotta power plant and intended to regulate outflows into Ticino. In addition to this, there are numerous revitalization and precautionary interventions along the entire stretch between Airolo and Rodi.

The 'Along the River' Theme Trail

To promote awareness of the project and raise awareness among the population, the CMAL has promoted the thematic path 'Along the river', which runs along the Ticino embankment. The route is enriched by eleven information stations, as well as a general panel located at the Ritom power plant, which illustrate the interventions carried out and their significance in relation to the natural development of the river and its interactions with the forest and aquatic fauna.

Benefits for the local community

The revitalization works of the Ticino river not only improve hydraulic safety and the protection of the natural habitat, but also offer new opportunities for tourism and leisure. The thematic trail 'Along the river' is an attraction for visitors, who can discover the beauty of the landscape and the interventions carried out. In addition, the river's hydraulic arrangement helps to protect building zones, increasing safety for local residents and businesses.

Recommended tools

For an up-to-date estimate, use the calcolatore stipendio netto and comparatore cambio CHF-EUR.

Key points

What to Expect in the Next Years

The works began in 2023 and by the end of 2025, the civil engineering interventions were tested. Currently, the final forestry and finishing works are ongoing, with completion expected by the end of 2026. Over the next five years, further management of the green areas will be necessary, particularly for the maintenance of the plantations and the control of invasive species.

Future Maintenance and Management

The total cost of the project is approximately CHF 8 million, funded by the Canton, Confederation, CMAL, and Ritom SA according to a pre-established cost-sharing key. The future management of the project will be entrusted to CMAL, which will oversee regular and extraordinary maintenance, ensuring the sustainability of the implemented interventions.

Useful Tools for Cross-Border Workers

For cross-border workers living or working in the area affected by the works, it is important to stay informed about the changes and opportunities offered by the project. The thematic trail 'Lungo il fiume' offers an opportunity to discover the beauty of the landscape and the interventions carried out. Furthermore, the river's hydraulic system contributes to protecting the habitable areas, increasing the safety for residents and local commercial activities.

Discover more about the cost of living in Ticino and calculate your net salary.

Source: tio.ch

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the Ticino river revitalization works?: The main goals of the Ticino river revitalization works are to maintain and adapt the riverbanks to increase the safety of the areas under construction, and to restore part of the river's original space, with a particular focus on naturalistic and landscape aspects, and to improve the aquatic habitat.
Who has funded the Ticino river revitalization project?: The Ticino river revitalization project has been funded by the Canton, Confederation, CMAL, and Ritom SA according to a pre-established sharing key, with a total cost of 8 million francs.
What is the role of the thematic trail 'Lungo il fiume'?: The thematic trail 'Lungo il fiume' was created to promote knowledge of the project and to raise awareness among the population. The route is enriched by eleven informative posts that illustrate the interventions carried out and their significance in relation to the natural development of the river and its interactions with the forest and aquatic fauna.