Thessaloniki unveils long-awaited driverless metro system

The northern Greek city of Thessaloniki has celebrated the opening of its long-anticipated metro system featuring driverless trains, a project that has faced numerous delays over several decades. The inauguration took place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and other officials officially launched the new transport service amidst rainy weather, with thousands of eager citizens waiting to experience the system. The metro includes a single line with 13 stations, designed to improve urban mobility significantly in a city known for its traffic congestion. Prior to the commencement of operations, the project had encountered multiple roadblocks, including legal disputes, archaeological concerns, and funding complications, which hindered progress since the initial budget approval in 1976. The construction became a focal point of public discontent owing to the various issues that plagued it, leading to increased costs surpassing 3 billion euros. Digs for the metro revealed thousands of artifacts, highlighting the historical significance of the area, which further complicated construction timelines. Archaeologists discovered remnants of a bustling street from the 6th century beneath the city, causing protests regarding the temporary removal of historical finds to facilitate building work. This integration of heritage with modern infrastructure showcases the complexities involved in urban development in a city with rich archaeological roots. With the expected daily use estimated at 254,000 passengers, the metro aims to reduce the number of cars on the road by approximately 57,000 each day. This reduction in car use could lead to lower pollution levels and alleviation of traffic issues in Thessaloniki, a city with over 300,000 residents and a metropolitan area serving more than a million people. Future expansions are planned, including an eastward extension with five additional stations set to open in 2025, as well as a westward extension, although it may take years before the metro reaches the busier Macedonia Airport. The completion of this system not only marks a technological advancement for the city but also symbolizes progress in addressing urban transport challenges faced by residents for decades. Officials hope that this new metro will serve as a catalyst for further development and modernization efforts throughout Thessaloniki.