The Greek Parliament passed the Railway Reform bill to enhance safety, modernize infrastructure, and improve operations. Lawmakers believe these reforms mark a crucial step toward sustainable railway development. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Railway Reform Strengthens Safety and Modernization
The recently approved Railway Reform merges the Hellenic Railway Organization (OSE) with its subsidiary ERGOSE into a single entity. This change improves oversight, construction management, and maintenance processes.
New measures empower the Railways Regulatory Authority (RAS) to monitor safety compliance effectively. Rolling stock management now shifts to GAIAOSE, enhancing maintenance systems and integrating advanced signaling technologies.
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The legislation also addresses critical issues, including outdated infrastructure, job shortages, and operational delays. Parliament emphasized that modernizing railways will restore public trust and improve economic performance.
Railway Reform Ensures Job Security and Economic Growth
The Railway Reform secures jobs through targeted recruitment and development plans. It provides new hiring programs for essential roles and defines financial strategies to boost long-term growth.
Economic experts predict these updates will attract foreign investment and align Greece’s railways with European standards. Officials aim to build safer, faster, and more efficient transportation networks through these reforms.
Railway unions organized a three-hour strike to demand faster implementation of reforms and enhanced passenger safety. Workers stressed the importance of modernizing rolling stock and addressing staffing shortages.
Minister Christos Staikouras emphasized the bill’s role in solving longstanding railway problems. He assured continued collaboration with unions to maintain accountability and improve infrastructure standards.
Supporters highlight the reforms as key to creating a reliable, efficient railway system. Critics, however, remain cautious, urging quicker implementation and further infrastructure investments.
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The Railway Reform introduces smart technologies, like signaling and telecommand systems, to improve travel efficiency and prevent delays. Analysts believe these updates will increase public confidence in railway services.
Officials have promised sustained investment and oversight to ensure reforms deliver long-lasting benefits. They expect modernized rail systems to boost tourism, reduce transportation costs, and promote regional connectivity.
Despite some criticism, government officials remain optimistic about the reform’s impact. They see it as a foundation for future growth, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in implementation.
Railway workers continue to push for additional measures, including the replacement of outdated rolling stock. They argue that safety improvements must remain a priority to prevent disruptions and ensure smooth operations.
Minister Staikouras reassured stakeholders that Greece’s railway modernization aligns with international standards. He emphasized sustainable investments to enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability across the transport network.
Economic analysts highlighted how infrastructure development supports long-term growth. They predict modernized railways will encourage trade, attract foreign partnerships, and strengthen Greece’s transport sector globally.
Union leaders warned that slow implementation could undermine progress. They urged immediate action to address critical safety concerns and improve passenger services.
The Railway Reform bill reflects Greece’s commitment to modernizing its railway system while protecting jobs and ensuring sustainable growth. Lawmakers expect these efforts to deliver lasting benefits for passengers and the economy.
Source, photo: www.tovima.com
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