The extension of the Thessaloniki Metro to Kalamaria is expected to become operational by the end of July, while the Flyover is expected to be completed on schedule, in May 2027, according to Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Nikos Tachiaos.
As Nikos Tachiaos explained in an interview with Thessaloniki radio station Status FM 107.7, the recent suspension of Metro operations is linked to the certification procedures for the new line by the international body TÜV.
This is a particularly complex technical project, as it marks the first time in Greece that a new branch line is being connected to an already operational Metro line.“Before August begins, the Metro will be handed over to the people of Thessaloniki.”
At the same time, he emphasized that plans for a circular line in Thessaloniki have been definitively abandoned, noting that the design now focuses on the development of two new lines that will be implemented gradually.“There is no circular metro line; it’s dead. That was a joke; it couldn’t even work as a railway,”he stated emphatically.
Particular emphasis is now being placed on the western extension of the Metro, for which, as the Deputy Minister revealed, planning has progressed significantly in collaboration with Hellenic Metro.
The new stations are expected to serve the areas of Ampelokipi, Menemeni, Evosmos, Kordelio, Neapoli, Stavroupoli, and Eukarpia, while the location of the station in Eukarpia has already been identified.
According to Nikos Tachiaos, the cost of the expansion is approximately €1 billion, with implementation to take place gradually and depending on the availability of funding.
The primary source of funding is expected to come from European funds, as similar Metro projects in Greece are traditionally funded by the European Union.
Flyover: Target completion in May 2027
Regarding the Thessaloniki Flyover, Mr. Tachiaos expressed optimism, stating that the project will be delivered on schedule in May 2027.
As he said, work is proceeding normally, and despite the unforeseen technical problems that have been identified during construction, the construction site remains fully organized.“It looks like it can be finished on time, that is, in May 2027.”
Referring to the connection between “Macedonia” Airport and the Metro, the deputy minister argued that the studies conducted to date do not justify the project’s construction, as there is insufficient passenger demand.
As he noted, the extension would only be more valuable if it also served areas with a high concentration of workers and business activity, such as Patriarchiko, the IKEA area, and the Interbalkan Center.
Single ticket for Metro and OASTH
Regarding the Metro’s fare policy, Mr. Tachiaos noted that responsibility lies with OSETh, though he expressed the view that the current fare of 0.60 euros is particularly low relative to the level of service the network provides.
At the same time, he prioritized full interoperability between the Metro and OASTH, so that passengers can use the same ticket on both modes of transport.
Egnatia Odos: Maintenance and certification projects underway
The Deputy Minister also referred to the work being carried out on the Egnatia Highway, explaining that it involves both the certification of the 69 tunnels longer than 500 meters and extensive maintenance work on the highway.
To facilitate travel during the summer season, the suspension of work on weekends and the performance of some of the work during nighttime hours are being considered.
New Halastra–Evzonoi axis and Chalkidona–Edessa project
Significant developments are also underway for the Halastra–Evzonoi vertical axis, where work has already begun on the construction of a second traffic lane toward Polykastro and Evzonoi.
As for the Chalkidona–Edessa project, the tender is in the final evaluation stage, with the contract expected to be finalized early next year.
The redevelopment of the TIF and the future of the city
The Deputy Minister expressed support for the immediate advancement of the TIF redevelopment, emphasizing that there is no question of relocating the fair and that the project must proceed without further delays.
In closing, he described the continuation and expansion of the Metro as the most important development project for Thessaloniki, noting that the western extension will radically change the city’s landscape and functionality in the coming years.“For me, the key is to move forward with the Metro in Thessaloniki. It is essential for the city. It will dramatically change it for the better.”
SOURCE: APE-MPE