Transport Minister Konstantinos Kyranakis has unveiled a series of reforms aimed at modernising Greece’s railways, following recent commitments by Prime Minister Mitsotakis. Central to the plan is the launch of a new online platform, railway.gov.gr, allowing the public to track trains in real time. Alongside this, Kyranakis announced the creation of an Integrated Monitoring Centre under the Hellenic Railways Organisation (OSE). Emphasising a tougher stance on staff accountability, Kyranakis outlined plans for more rigorous evaluation of railway personnel. Key measures include mandatory competency tests for critical roles both before and after hiring, in collaboration with the Armed Forces to assess the suitability of security personnel.

The new railway.gov.gr platform will integrate several digital tools, including:

  • a comprehensive railway data registry
  • a geolocation system to monitor train movements, and
  • a new application for recording operational instructions and any violations.

He added that the new railway safety structures would include the establishment and operation of a Integrated Monitoring Centre.The centre will be tasked with overseeing train traffic, collecting movement data, monitoring risk assessments, issuing preventative alerts, and coordinating rapid responses during emergencies.

The minister stressed the need for training and rigorous evaluation of railway staff, alongside tougher penalties for breaches.

Among the measures planned:

  • Competency testing for staff in critical roles before and after recruitment
  • Cooperation with the Armed Forces for evaluating the suitability of security personnel
  • Appointment of train supervisors
  • Creation of a special Railway Inspectors Unit
  • Sanctions for violations of the General Traffic Regulations
  • Access to facilities and training services for railway company and infrastructure manager staff
  • Broader certification of those responsible for vehicle maintenance

The government also plans to accelerate the recruitment process at regulatory bodies such as the Regulatory Authority for Railways (RAS) and the newly created body, EODASAAM (Hellenic Aviation and Railway Safety Investigation Agency), with a pledge to bolster the latter’s independence in managing resources.

Looking ahead, Kyranakis hinted at a fundamental restructuring of OSE, aiming to inject a more efficient, private-sector-driven ethos into the organisation. Priorities will include attracting international talent, fast-tracking the hiring process for key safety roles, and streamlining the awarding and delivery of crucial railway projects.

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