Athens, January 5 – Ongoing farmers’ protests in the Viotia region have resulted in significant traffic restrictions and detours on the Athens-Thessaloniki-Evzones highway. The demonstrations, which have persisted for over a month, are a direct response to farmers’ demands for delayed subsidies and broader agricultural support from the government.
Traffic Rerouted on Major Highway
Police authorities have confirmed that the presence of farmers and their tractors on the roadway has necessitated detours in both directions of the national highway. Drivers traveling towards Athens are being rerouted from the Martino interchange to the Ritsona interchange, utilizing highway service roads and regional routes that connect Kastrou, Livadia, Thiva, and Halkida.
For traffic heading towards Lamia, diversions are in place from the Ritsona interchange to the Bralos interchange. This route directs vehicles onto regional and national roads linking Thiva, Livadia, and Lamia. Additionally, between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., cars and buses destined for Lamia are instructed to follow a modified route via Atalanti before rejoining the main highway.
Authorities have strongly advised drivers to adhere to police directions and to meticulously plan their journeys to mitigate potential delays and avoid congested areas. The prolonged nature of the protests underscores the deep-seated grievances within the agricultural sector.
Background to the Protests: Demands for Subsidies and Support
The current wave of protests is part of a broader movement by Greek farmers who are advocating for their economic rights and improved conditions within the agricultural sector. A primary concern is the delay in receiving European Union subsidies, which are crucial for their livelihoods and operational costs. Reports indicate a shortfall of an estimated €600 million in EU subsidies and other payments, currently frozen amidst an investigation into a corruption scandal involving agricultural aid distribution [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/1288907/farmers-block-athens-lamia-highway-protests-over-eu-payment-delays-intensify).
Farmers have also expressed discontent over rising operational costs, including fuel, energy, and spare parts, which have significantly impacted their profitability. They maintain that the government has not provided adequate guarantees or concrete solutions to their 27 demands, which include financial aid, tax breaks, and reduced production costs [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/1290812/farmers-maintain-roadblocks-as-they-weigh-escalating-protests).
Escalation and Impact on Travel
The protests have seen various forms of escalation, including the blocking of major highways and border crossings. Earlier actions included blockades of the Athens-Lamia national highway near Thiva and the Promachonas border crossing with Bulgaria [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/1288907/farmers-block-athens-lamia-highway-protests-over-eu-payment-delays-intensify). The disruption has been particularly acute during holiday periods, with travel times between major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki stretching to 10-12 hours due to extensive diversions and congestion [tovima.com](https://www.tovima.com/society/athens-thessaloniki-drive-hits-10-hours-as-farmers-escalate-protests/).
Despite some temporary easing of blockades during Christmas and New Year’s Eve to facilitate holiday travel, farmers have consistently resumed and intensified their actions, signaling their unwavering resolve [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1291025/farmers-resume-road-blockades-after-christmas-pause), [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1291065/farmers-renew-road-blockades-in-western-greece/). Meetings have been held, and dialogue initiated, but a definitive resolution remains elusive, leading to continued uncertainty for commuters and the logistics sector.
The government has acknowledged 16 of the farmers’ 27 demands, with four under review and seven deemed unfeasible. However, farmers insist on clear answers and meaningful negotiations to address their concerns effectively [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/1290812/farmers-maintain-roadblocks-as-they-weigh-escalating-protests).
Source: [ekathimerini.com](https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1291562/ongoing-farmers-protests-in-viotia-force-detours-on-athens-thessaloniki-highway/)
