Greek train accident report: Security failure leads to protests!
Greek train accident report: Security failure leads to protests!
Tempe, Griechenland - On February 27, 2025, the examination of the most difficult train accident was published in the history of Greece. This tragic collision occurred on February 28, 2023, when a passenger train broke up frontally with a freight train near Larissa and called for 57 lives. The National Authority's report shows that chronic security deficiencies were responsible for the accident. The findings came at the right time, since on tomorrow's anniversary there are far -reaching strikes and protests in Greece and beyond. The victims' families have repeatedly accused the authorities of covering up evidence and not providing any transparent information.
The independent investigation commission identified several factors that led to the accident, including human failure, a routing error by a station leader and the out of the infrastructure. The investigators reported that the station head conducted a passenger train on the same track as an oncoming freight train, which ultimately led to the disaster. In this incident, 46 passengers and 11 employees died, including both train drivers. This led to a public outcry and massive demonstrations.
chronic defects in the rail network
The investigation of the National Aviation Investigation Agency and the Railway Accidents and Transportation Safety (Harsia) also illuminates the deeply rooted defects of the Greek rail network. Dramatic cuts are addressed during the economic crisis from 2009 to 2018, which significantly impaired the rail system. The operator Hellenic Train was unable to demonstrate ongoing training, especially with regard to safety -relevant communication.
Christos Papadimitriou, the head of Harsia, called the current report an "X -ray image" of the rail system. According to the results, inadequate training and lack of personnel have led to a dilapidated rail system that has no automated security controls. In her findings, Harsia was able to work out up to 17 recommendations that affect both the railway supervisory authority, Hellenic Train, the Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.
public reactions and safety precautions
The government has announced that it will react to the "very serious defects and understaffs", but rejected the accusations of the opposition to have hindered the investigation. A government spokesman made it clear that the claims about an attempt to cover up are not supported by the results of the report. For security during the expected protests, 5,000 police officers are used to monitor in Athens, since mass protests and a general strike could also affect flights, ferries, public services and commercial activities.
In summary, the findings underline the need for a fundamental reform of the rail network in Greece. The challenges of the past and the lessons from this tragedy show that mechanisms to prevent such worse incidents are urgently needed to ensure the safety of travelers. Further information on the topic is also in the reports of AP news and Details