The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel advisory for those planning to visit Greece, in light of a major transport strike. The strike coincides with the anniversary on February 28th of a devastating train crash that claimed 57 lives, marking the deadliest rail accident in Greek history.
The tragic incident involved a passenger train colliding head-on with a freight train near the Tempi Valley. Initial investigations attributed the disaster to human error and systemic failures within the Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE), including outdated signalling systems and insufficient safety measures. Critics, including families of the victims, have accused the ruling New Democracy party of attempting to downplay their role in the tragedy.
On February 28th, large-scale protests are planned, with strikes expected to affect air traffic control, ferries, and trains. The Foreign Office warned of significant disruption and noted that hospitals would likely only be able to handle emergency cases.
In an official statement, UK officials said: “Mass demonstrations and widespread disruption to public services will take place across Greece on 28 February to mark the second anniversary of the 2023 Tempi Valley train collision (Thessaly region, in central Greece). The collision, involving a passenger train and a freight train, killed 57 people and injured 85 passengers.”, reports the Liverpool Echo.
According to the latest travel warnings, Greece is bracing for significant disruptions across its public transport network, with a nationwide strike expected to cause chaos. The Foreign Office cautions: “All public transport will face serious disruptions and suspension to services. Ferries, nationwide trains, and air traffic controllers will conduct a 24-hour strike. Expect flight cancellations and delays for national and international flights to and from all airports in Greece.”
Additionally, public services, including hospitals, are expected to face significant disruptions, with many only handling emergency cases. For the most up-to-date information, travellers can visit the Foreign Office website.
Regarding demonstrations in Greece, the Foreign Office advises: “Some demonstrations in the past have turned violent. Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and move away to the last known safe place. Security forces often use tear gas to break up demonstrations, which can harm your breathing and vision.”