Hellenic Railways: Greek PM Pushes for Swift Operational Launch Amid Reforms – New Train Investments Are a Top Priority

The immediate operation of Hellenic Railways S.A. and the procurement of new trains are the primary goals of the new leadership at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

During Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ visit to the ministry’s headquarters, it became clear that the railway issue is now an urgent priority.

In the coming period, systematic efforts will be made to restore the image of the railway system and lead it toward a better future.

“For us, the primary goal—besides, of course, ensuring safety—is to make the railway economically sustainable so that, at the end of the journey, it no longer needs state subsidies. We envision a railway with economic activity, both passenger and freight,” said Deputy Minister Konstantinos Kyranakis.

The first step is the operation of Hellenic Railways, potentially sooner than the end-of-year target. The initial challenge is staffing the new organization with capable professionals from both Greece and abroad.

The goal is to create an attractive company that can be built from the ground up with modern operations, similar to railway companies abroad. In the coming period, legislative initiatives are expected based on the existing Action Plan for the railway sector.

Speaking on the matter, Deputy Minister of Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis stated that the search for capable executives with experience in railway companies is beginning. Naturally, this will require a recruitment policy that avoids the constraints of the ASEP hiring process.

Regarding the restoration projects in Thessaly, Mr. Kyranakis stated that they will commence within the next two months.

Additionally, the Deputy Minister raised the issue of procuring new trains. He mentioned that negotiations with Hellenic Train will begin, during which this matter will also be addressed. The goal is to introduce modern trains.

“We are talking about state-of-the-art trains that meet the standards of a European railway network. The parent company, FSI, must support the initiative taking place in Greece,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Prime Minister also made a special mention of the railway, emphasizing the need for more flexible procedures that remain within the limits of the European legislative framework. This is essential for the organization to operate with modern structures, new personnel, and a technocratic management system.

Regarding transportation, Mr. Mitsotakis stated that a plan for improving public transport in Athens will soon be announced. This includes renewing the bus fleet, upgrading 14 train sets on Line 1, and procuring new trains for Lines 2 and 3.

In early April, before Easter, the full strategic plan for ISAP, the metro, and buses will be presented. It will outline all investments—including new train sets, refurbishments, and buses—with the aim of increasing service frequency and enhancing the reliability of public transportation for citizens.

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