Athens is ushering in a new era of urban mobility with the introduction of “ATHENS MOVE,” a municipal public transport initiative that has deployed 17 electric buses across four new routes. This system is designed to address gaps in local transportation, decrease the city’s dependence on private cars, and enhance accessibility for all residents.
New Routes and Funding for Sustainable Transport
The newly established routes, developed following a comprehensive city transport study and approved by Greece’s primary transit authority (OASA), will cover a total of 40 kilometers and incorporate 185 stops. This initiative represents an investment of €11.2 million, financed through the Social Climate Fund, and includes the establishment of modern charging infrastructure alongside fully accessible bus stops.
Key Routes of ATHENS MOVE:
- Neos Kosmos – Petralona – Kerameikos
- Kato Patisia – Sepolia – Kerameikos
- Promponas – Ano Patisia – Kypseli
- Attiki – Kypseli
Mayor Haris Doukas emphasized that the new network is intended to complement the existing metro and bus services. “We are creating a modern and inclusive system that offers residents a practical alternative to private cars, particularly benefiting vulnerable citizens,” he stated.
Benefits for Citizens and the Environment
The “ATHENS MOVE” initiative is set to deliver multiple advantages for both the city’s inhabitants and its environmental well-being:
- Sustainable Mobility: The deployment of electric buses and the anticipated reduction in private car usage will contribute to a significant decrease in CO₂ emissions.
- Multimodal Hubs: Selected bus stops will be transformed into multimodal hubs, integrating various forms of public transport with walking, cycling, and micro-mobility options. These hubs will also feature green spaces and shaded seating areas.
- Increased Accessibility: All stops are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring low floors, ramps, dedicated seating, and audio-visual announcements to assist individuals with mobility challenges.
- Support for Underserved Neighborhoods: The program specifically targets areas that have historically lacked adequate public transit, thereby helping to alleviate transport poverty and reduce commuting costs for residents in these communities.
- Year-Round Service: The new routes will operate daily, ensuring consistent and reliable transit options for locals throughout the year.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
The launch of “ATHENS MOVE” signifies a strategic step towards a more sustainable and accessible urban environment in Athens. The municipal government, in collaboration with OASA, is committed to continuously improving the public transport infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of its citizens.
This initiative aligns with broader European efforts to promote eco-friendly transportation solutions and enhance the quality of urban life. The integration of electric buses is expected to set a precedent for future developments in public transport across Greece.
The city’s commitment to modernizing its transport system is further underscored by related recent developments, including discussions on harsher fines for fare dodgers and vandals, and ongoing infrastructure projects for the Athens Metro, such as track and 5G works and key milestones reached in new metro line tunnels.
The “ATHENS MOVE” project is a testament to Athens’ dedication to fostering a greener, more connected, and inclusive urban landscape for all its residents.
