Greek Minister Reveals Timeline for Thessaloniki and Athens Metro Expansions

Transport Minister Christos Staikouras. Photo source: Transport Ministry

Greek Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Christos Staikouras, recently unveiled the timeline for the expansion of the Thessaloniki metro, which officially began operations on November 30.

Additionally, Minister Staikouras provided updates on Line 4 of the Athens metro and outlined recent measures to enhance rail services across Attica’s three main railway lines.

Thessaloniki metro expansion

Minister Staikouras confirmed that the extension of the Thessaloniki metro to Kalamaria will be completed by the end of 2025. This expansion will increase daily ridership to approximately 350,000 passengers and will expand the number of stations from the current 13 to 18.

Furthermore, the minister shared that a feasibility study will soon begin for further extensions westward and routes to the areas of Toumba and Harilaou, ultimately reaching Thessaloniki International Airport.

“We are actively seeking funding for these expansions. It’s crucial that we continue to extend the metro system,” Minister Staikouras stated.

He also noted that a new suburban railway line to western Thessaloniki is expected to go out to tender in the next 18 months. This new line will integrate with the metro system, with plans for completion by 2028. The line will also connect to the International University of Thessaloniki.

Athens Metro Line 4 update

Regarding the progress of Athens Metro Line 4, Minister Staikouras provided updates on the ongoing construction of underground tunnels.

The tunnel boring machine “Mole Niki”, which began at Galatsi, has reached the second station, with 600 meters of tunneling completed. The extension will continue to Evangelismos station. Meanwhile, “Mole Athina” has completed over 2 kilometers of tunneling, reaching the Zografou neighborhood. The two tunnels are expected to meet at Evangelismos by 2026.

Looking ahead, Minister Staikouras emphasized that Line 4 of the Athens metro is projected to be completed by the end of this decade.

Minister Staikouras also addressed the ongoing maintenance of the existing metro network in Athens. A budget of 8 million euros has been allocated for the maintenance of metro infrastructure, including upgrades to the rolling stock.