The recent infrastructure developments across Greece highlight the government's commitment to enhancing connectivity and capacity, significantly impacting transportation and energy.
On Monday, the long-anticipated opening of the Alexandroupolis-Ormenio railroad line marked a significant milestone. Deputy Infrastructure and Transport Minister Vassilis Economou celebrated the final trial run of the train on Sunday, which underscored the government's push to reinvigorate the national rail network.
During this inaugural train travel, Economou stopped at the bridge at Pythion to personally inspect its restructuring. He affirmed the readiness of the infrastructure, stating, "The Alexandroupolis-Orestiada line is a national line and will be upgraded. We have laid out a comprehensive plan, having committed to opening and upgrading three stations in the region - Orestiada, Soufli, and Didimotycho." His remarks indicate a proactive approach to not only rejuvenate existing lines but also to connect regions with strategic importance.
This renewed emphasis on regional infrastructure sends a clear signal: "Evros will not stay behind, but is at the heart of our national policy," Economou added, reflecting on the line's importance not only for local transport but for broader economic engagement with neighboring countries like Türkiye.
Complementing this initiative, Fraport Greece has laid out ambitious plans to upgrade the airports it manages over the next five years, with investments totaling approximately 600 million euros. These investments are primarily aimed at increasing capacity at regional airports, particularly those of Kos, Corfu, Mykonos, and Santorini, which have experienced significant passenger traffic growth since Fraport took over management.
The expected improvements are deemed necessary as these regional airports have reached their operational limits. According to Fraport Greece’s General Manager of Commercial and Business Development, "Sustainability is a core priority, as outlined in the company’s 2030 strategy, which includes specific targets to boost capacity without compromising environmental responsibilities."
This upgrade plan is scheduled to be finalized within the next three months, with initial estimates exceeding 200 million euros, alongside 50 million euros annually spent on infrastructure improvements across all airports. These enhancements play a pivotal role alongside the strategic goal of aviation expansion, which will also involve increasing flight routes and attracting new airlines.
Among these developments, the completion of the Crete-Attica electrical interconnection stands out, expected to become operational by spring 2025. With a budget surpassing €1.1 billion, this interconnection will substantially support Greece's energy needs, boasting an expected capacity of 1,000 megawatts. Such projects are pivotal to integrate renewable energy sources, substantiations of Greece’s long-term commitment to sustainable energy production.
The Bank of Greece’s recent reports underline the economic importance of these infrastructural upgrades, noting progress yet calling for stronger growth to fully emerge from the economic challenges faced historically. The focus on infrastructure not only enhances connectivity but also fosters economic stimulus, paving the way for future investments and improvements across sectors.
With these initiatives, Greece is working diligently toward not just recovery but sustainable growth, positioning itself as a promising destination for tourism, investment, and international trade. Each project, from railroads to airports and electrical interconnections, is interconnected, playing its part toward creating a resilient infrastructure foundation equipped for the future.
By strategically enhancing these areas, Greek authorities are reinforcing the framework needed for economic revitalization and sustainable development, indicating brighter prospects for the nation as it navigates the road to recovery.
