The government's plan for the new modern railway line in Patras was presented by the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Costas Karamanlis, while speaking at the 8th Regional Growth Conference in Patras.
Karamanlis presented a video depicting the complete project. He pointed out that the previous government put in place a pharaonic project, which the city didn't needed to implement.
"We can't fool the world. We never work with the logic of 'say nice big words today and let the next one clean up.' That's why we were very concerned about it. They tortured us at the Ministry. We sought a solution that can become a reality and solve the city's problems," Karamanlis underlined.
He presented the complete plan by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport for Patras that satisfies 7 basic principles:
- First, it is realistic and can be funded by the EU. So it can be done.
- Second: It frees up the city centre. It gives Patras back to the people of Patras.
- Third: It opens the city to the sea.
- Fourth: It is the best environmental solution. With substantial urban regeneration interventions. Much more green. And zero pollutants in the atmosphere.
- Fifth: It keeps the Suburban Railway in operation.
- Sixth: Minimises visual and sound disturbance.
- Seventh: It strengthens the safety of pedestrians and drivers.
Karamanlis stressed that the Suburban Railway continues to operate normally, as all 8 existing stops along the length of the project are maintained, while at the same time an additional stop is added.
The high-speed railway line will run from Athens to the new port of Patras in only an hour and 40 minutes.
Passenger traffic is estimated to be more than 1,100,000 a year, compared to the second phase in 2040, which is estimated to be more than 1.5 million passengers.
