Deputy Minister of Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis expressed support for workers reporting safety concerns in public transport.
“Workers are right to highlight safety problems—and they should continue to do so. I encourage them to speak up, without fear. I urge them to report any issue they observe—on trains, the Metro, ISAP, buses—anywhere,” Kyranakis stated in an interview with ERT.
On Genidounias’ Dismissal
When asked about the dismissal of trade unionist Kostas Genidounias by Hellenic Train, Kyranakis remarked:
“We are not union bosses to dictate what a company should or shouldn’t do.”
Railway Staff Evaluation and Training
Kyranakis emphasized the need for staff evaluation and training on the railways:
“We are committed to a model of improved staff evaluation and training that includes practical exercises with objective criteria—reflexes, psychometric testing, and crisis management under pressure. These are essential for frontline employees.”
He added that:
“These tests—both pre-hiring and during regular evaluations—form the doctrine we aim to implement. If Hellenic Train does not apply this, we reserve the right to suspend their license. The same applies to OSE employees.”
Surveillance Drones
Addressing the issue of vandalism and theft on trains and the OSE rail network, Kyranakis stated:
“The drone surveillance system now operating on the Greek railway, initiated by the previous minister, monitors five high-risk areas where most theft, vandalism, and even stone-throwing incidents occur—often by individuals emerging from nearby camps.”
He confirmed arrests have been made:
“Drones have provided video evidence leading to real-time arrests. In one case, the arrest happened within 15 minutes. I thank the police and Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis. With this footage, law enforcement can now act against specific individuals—this is already happening, not just a future plan.”
New Buses in Attica
On the renewal of the bus fleet in Attica, Kyranakis announced:
“There are currently 500 new buses operating in Attica. By the end of the year, we’ll have around 1,000, and by 2027, 1,500 new buses. After over a decade of crisis and neglect, we’re finally renewing the fleet.”
He added:
“This is a major goal of Prime Minister Mitsotakis. With more buses and drivers—recruitment campaigns are ongoing—we can reduce wait times.”
“The bus should arrive on time and get people to work faster. I have the utmost respect for the person who wakes up early and waits patiently at the bus stop. We owe them a better service—with a clean, modern bus that runs punctually. And we must not obstruct the bus lanes.”
ISAP & Suburban Railway Upgrades
Regarding renovations of ISAP and Suburban Rail (Proastiakos) trains, Kyranakis said:
“ISAP trains are finally being renovated after many years, along with the stations, which are now cleaner and more modern inside. The same must be done for their exterior and for Proastiakos stations, many of which are in poor condition.”
He concluded:
“Hellenic Train will introduce new dual-powered trains for routes like the Metro-to-Airport line. We will also increase and refurbish Metro trains to reduce wait times, while fully renewing the bus fleet.”
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