Greece: Rail transportation strike to affect Athens, other cities March 5-6

Event

The Panhellenic Federation of Railway Workers is planning to stage a strike on Monday, March 5, and Tuesday, March 6. Significant rail transportation disruptions are expected nationwide - particularly affecting Athens - during the strike, which will be held on Monday from 05:00 to 08:00 (local time), from 13:00 to 16:00, and from 21:00 to 23:59, and on Tuesday from 00:00 to 23:59. Specifically, trains operating between Athens and Thessaloniki and Athens and Patras, suburban train routes to and from Athens International Airport (ATH), and Athens metro line 3 (Blue Line) from Doukissis Plakentias station to ATH will not run during the abovementioned times on Monday and throughout Tuesday. Buses will also not provide service between Kiato and Patras during the strike. Additional train service disruptions, including delays and cancelations, are expected throughout Greece on Monday and Tuesday.

Context

Employees affiliated with the Panhellenic Federation of Railway Workers are reportedly protesting the privatization of the Hellenic Company for Rolling Stock Maintenance SA (EESSTY), among other issues.

Advice

Individuals in Greece, particularly those in or planning travel to Athens, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, confirm travel reservations, plan additional time for travel (including to and from the ATH) and consider alternative means of transportation, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Demand for alternative forms of transportation is likely to increase during the strike period.