“We are delivering projects that shield the country with modern, resilient, and functional infrastructure,” said Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Christos Staikouras.

2025 is expected to be a landmark year for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, as significant and iconic projects are rapidly progressing, transforming the country’s landscape.

Specifically, regarding the implementation of major public works in 2025:

• The Thessaloniki Metro extension to Kalamaria will be completed.
• The Patras – Pyrgos highway will be completed.
• The Vonitsa – Lefkada road axis will be completed.

Meanwhile:

• Construction of Athens Metro Line 4 continues, with tunneling to be completed by 2026.
• The E65 highway connection to the Egnatia Odos is advancing and will be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
• The Eastern Inner Peripheral Road of Thessaloniki is progressing at a rapid pace.
• The Northern Crete Highway (BOAK) is moving forward, with the Chania – Heraklion section’s contract expected to be signed in early 2025.
• Construction of the new Kastelli Airport has surpassed 40% completion.
• The Mpralos – Amfissa road axis has commenced and is advancing at a satisfactory pace.
• The Ioannina – Kakavia road axis has been contracted and will soon begin construction.

In addition, significant initiatives are being promoted:

1. Modernization of the railway network:
   Railway infrastructure is being upgraded with significant EU funding for the first time. Advanced technological systems are being implemented to enhance safety, while OSE (Hellenic Railways Organization) is undergoing reorganization.
2. Upgrading public transportation:
   In Athens, 950 new eco-friendly buses will be added by summer 2025. Furthermore, nine trains on Line 1 will be upgraded, and 14 will be refurbished, with the first ones completed within 2025. In Thessaloniki, 50% of OASTH’s vehicles are already new.
3. Enhancing road safety:
   The legal framework for the Highway Code is being updated, and a National Road Safety Observatory is being established. Additionally, digital monitoring of violations and more efficient fine management are being promoted.
4. Maintenance of existing infrastructure:
   In collaboration with the Technical Chamber of Greece, a preventive maintenance program for 250 bridges is being implemented. The goal is to ensure structural integrity, prevent accidents, and address risks related to climate change.
5. Promoting electric mobility:
   Incentives for adopting electric vehicles have increased, leading to rapid growth in this sector. Over the past two years, €60 million in subsidies supported the purchase of 20,000 vehicles. Additionally, charging stations increased from 58 in 2019 to more than 6,700 today.

Regarding the implementation of large irrigation and flood protection projects in 2025:

• Completion of:
  • The Eschatia and Agios Georgios streams in Attica.
  • The Eastern Vistriza irrigation network in Fthiotida.
  • The Skyros dam and water pipeline.
  • The Samothrace reservoir.
  • The Lasithi irrigation network.
  • The Heraklion dam.
• The tender for the Platys dam in Rethymno will be announced.
• Contracts will be signed for:
  • Supplementary works at the Bramianos reservoir in Lasithi.
  • Flood protection in Nea Makri, Attica.
  • The Kelefina dam in Laconia and the Nestorio dam in Kastoria.
  • The extension of the Kozani irrigation network.

In a statement to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (AMNA), Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Christos Staikouras emphasized:
“Adhering to project timelines remains a non-negotiable goal for us, as it is the foundation for the timely and effective completion of each project. Experience has shown that proper organization, transparency, and decisiveness are key to ensuring progress and success. With a clear plan, methodical approach, and realism, we are moving forward with a sense of responsibility to fulfill all our commitments. We are delivering projects that shield the country with modern, resilient, and functional infrastructure, improve citizens’ quality of life, and enhance development with economic efficiency and social returns. Every step we take is strategically designed to meet today’s needs and create a better future for all