Covid-19: Authorities Ban Access to Thessaloniki Waterfront Area

White Tower, Thessaloniki, northern Greece. Photo Source: Municipality of Thessaloniki (archive photo)

Greek authorities are banning access to Thessaloniki’s popular waterfront starting today (Tuesday), after hundreds of residents gathered in the area during the weekend, despite the social distancing rules imposed due to COVID-19.

The area will remain closed from 2pm – 8am on weekdays and during the weekends.

Police has set up barriers on roads and paths leading to the waterfront to prevent people from entering the pedestrian area stretching from the Votsis statue near the White Tower to the Thessaloniki Concert Hall.

Thessaloniki, Greece. Photo Source: @Apostolos Tzitzikostas

“Non compliance with the rules restricting circulation has resulted to new stricter measures,” Civil Protection Minister Nikos Hardalias said after discussing the issue with Thessaloniki Mayor Konstantinos Zervas and Central Macedonia Governor Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

The measure will be in effect for 14 days, while violators will be fined 150 euros.