Privately-owned railway Hellenic Train (formerly TrainOSE) operates passenger and freight trains on OSE lines in Greece.

Ensuring safety of passengers and personnel is a key demand of the unionists.

It is recalled that in February 2023, the head-on collision of two trains in Tempi, Central Greece, left behind 57 people dead and dozens of unanswered questions.

According to a statement issued by the Panhellenic Union of Traction Staff, “our efforts are focused on protecting the safety of all those who use the railway network every day”.

Demands include upgrading safety measures, including the immediate implementation across the network of a remote control and light signaling system (ETCS); the completion of infrastructure works; the maintenance of the railway network; keeping the railway network clear of materials, trunks and obstacles; and ensuring investments in new rolling stock with a focus on suburban lines.

“It of utmost urgency to invest in new trains to ensure the quality and safety of transport,” the union said, calling on travelers to show understanding.

“Cooperation is essential to ensure the network continues to serve the public without putting the lives of employees and passengers at risk.”

According to state-run news agency amna.gr, the Hellenic Train management has appealed to the Court of Justice against the strike on the grounds that “the majority of the union’s requests concern issues that are within the competence of OSE”. The court will convene on the issue tomorrow, Wednesday.