Traffic Chaos and Tourist Congestion in Athens

A survey by "Proto Thema" highlights the challenges of living in Athens, with emphasis on traffic and increasing tourist traffic.

According to the survey, approximately 5 million people live in Athens, nearly half of the population of Greece, in an area that constitutes only 3% of the country. In addition, a record 9 million tourists are expected by December, reaching a total of 14 million people.

Actor Giannis Bezos described traffic as the number one political problem. The city faces serious problems with 6 million cars circulating on a road network that can only accommodate 2 million, while 350,000 parking spaces are missing. At the same time, 30,000 people are looking for a house to rent, with prices remaining high.

There are also shortages in green spaces and metro stations, while traffic jams extend to Attiki Odos. However, tourist arrivals are increasing, leading to investments in hotels and maintaining high property prices.

The columnist agrees with Giannis Bezos that the government must act to address the chaos in Athens, through extensions of Attiki Odos and the metro, the purchase of buses and bold decisions on housing and water supply, as there is a risk of water shortage in 2027.

If there are no improvements, tourists may start to move away from Athens.