7,000 police deployed for November 17 celebrations

Traffic measures in place

The centre of Athens will be in complete lock-down for celebrations of the 43rd anniversary of the 1973 November 17 student uprising anniversary. 7,000 police officers have been deployed all around Athens to prevent riots and ensure safety and order during the marches towards the US Embassy, which are scheduled to start as the day progresses. Apart from conventional police forces, the anti-terrorist unit has also been mobilised, as there are concerns of a terrorist attack. Authorities are concerned over the occupation of the Ginis building near the Polytechnic by members of anti-establishment and anarchist groups. The plan also involves the a large force of the fire department, while traffic will be diverted during the celebrations and marches.
Traffic measures
Measures in place from the Athens Polytechnic to nearby Kaningos Square since Wednesday and will continue to be in effect on Thursday, according to the traffic police headquarters. The measures will be expanded to the wider area and will include Alexandras, Patission, Stadiou and Vas. Sofias Avenues, as weel as to parallel and vertical routes. There will be modifications to the trolley and bus routes during the day.