Thessaloniki, Greece—The newly inaugurated Thessaloniki metro is facing significant operational challenges, just two weeks after its highly anticipated launch.
On Saturday night, a power outage led to the stalling of a metro train between two stations, forcing passengers into an unexpected evacuation.
The incident has raised questions about the reliability of the long-delayed metro system, which took 38 years to complete.
Passengers aboard the stalled train endured about 15 minutes of uncertainty before being directed to disembark and walk along the tracks to the nearest station.
The evacuation marked the first such incident since the metro opened to the public earlier this month.
Service has since been limited to one track between Nea Elvetia and Panepistimio stations, disrupting access to eight of the system’s 13 stations and causing inconvenience for daily commuters.
Expert Response and Public Reaction
Emergency response expert Lazaros Filippidis highlighted the significance of the incident. “It’s ironic that, after nearly four decades of construction, the Thessaloniki metro faced its first major challenge so soon, and due to a power outage,” he remarked.
The system, originally envisioned as a modern solution to the city’s growing transit needs, has now come under scrutiny for its preparedness and contingency planning.
Commuters expressed mixed feelings following the disruption. While many appreciated the swift response of metro staff during the evacuation, others voiced frustration over the lack of communication and the lingering service limitations.
Pelion Steam Train Derailment Adds to Weekend Woes
In a separate transportation incident on the same day, a steam train in Mount Pelion derailed during its first day of operation on a scenic 15-kilometer route.
The derailment occurred near Ano Lechonia, with 37 passengers on board. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The iconic steam train, operated by Hellenic Train, had been promoted as a historic and cultural attraction, offering a nostalgic journey through one of Greece’s picturesque mountain landscapes.
However, the derailment has temporarily halted the service, with the company launching an investigation into the cause. Passengers described the incident as alarming but praised the staff for their prompt action in ensuring everyone’s safety.
“It was unsettling to feel the train wobble and come to a sudden stop, but the crew remained calm and guided us through the situation,” said one passenger.
Broader Implications for Greek Transportation
The twin setbacks have cast a shadow over Greece’s transportation sector, which has been striving to modernize its infrastructure and services.
The Thessaloniki metro’s issues, compounded by the derailment in Pelion, underscore the challenges of maintaining and operating newly introduced and heritage transit systems alike.
Officials have pledged to address the problems swiftly. Metro authorities are conducting an internal review of the power outage, while Hellenic Train is assessing the steam train derailment. Both organizations have assured the public that safety remains their top priority.
As Greece seeks to balance its transportation modernization goals with the preservation of historic rail services, the weekend’s events highlight the importance of rigorous testing and reliable operational frameworks.
For now, commuters and tourists alike will need to navigate these disruptions as authorities work toward restoring confidence in the nation’s transit systems.