Thousands of locals blocked the Brenner highway in Austria, protesting against pollution and congestion caused by trucks and tourists.

On Saturday, May 30, 2026, thousands of locals blocked the A13 Brenner highway in Austria, a vital corridor between Germany and Italy, as part of a protest against excessive traffic and pollution in the Wipp Valley. The demonstration was led by Mayor Karl Muehlsteiger of Gries am Brenner, who highlighted the long-standing tensions between Austria and Germany regarding traffic issues. Authorities in Tyrol have implemented measures to reduce vehicle flow, but these have sparked protests and discontent. The protest lasted eight hours, without causing chaos, as drivers adhered to the instructions to avoid the area. Trains in the region were crowded, and the provincial road was open only to locals. Muehlsteiger urged participants to "make history" through their action.