Christos Papadimitriou, the deputy chairman of Greece’s National Railway Accident Investigation Agency (HARSIA), has stepped down from his post, submitting his resignation in a letter to Deputy Transport Minister Kostas Kyranakis.
The move follows a tumultuous period marked by conflicting statements and governmental criticism over the agency’s report into the deadly Tempi train crash, one of the worst rail disasters in Greek history.
Papadimitriou’s departure comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the investigation’s findings, particularly regarding the controversial “fireball” theory linked to the accident. Government sources described the resignation as voluntary, yet it is widely believed that pressure from senior officials played a significant role. Both Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis and government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis had publicly distanced themselves from Papadimitriou, effectively signaling his exit. The inconsistencies in the report, especially on the fireball issue, had sparked backlash and undermined confidence in the agency, with Kyranakis himself noting that the contradictions damaged HARSIA’s credibility.
In his resignation letter, Papadimitriou defended the agency’s work, arguing that the report on the Tempi tragedy was thorough and valuable for the future of Greek rail transport. However, he acknowledged the fireball matter as an exception, stating that the agency’s council unanimously agreed it required further investigation—a position he had maintained since the report’s unveiling.
“I believe HARSIA has produced a sound report, invaluable for the future of rail transport in Greece,” Papadimitriou wrote. “The only exception is the fireball issue, which, in the opinion of the entire council, merits additional scrutiny.”
Papadimitriou’s tenure began on September 18, 2023, when he took on the challenging task of establishing a rail accident investigation body from scratch. In his letter, he highlighted his 18-month effort to build a capable agency, working tirelessly and forgoing other professional pursuits. He cited “personal and family reasons” for his resignation, though the political storm surrounding the Tempi findings appears to have been a decisive factor.
The full text of his resignation letter reads:
Dear Mr. Minister,
Since September 18, 2023, I have strived to serve the public interest with responsibility and scientific rigor during a difficult time. I undertook the creation of a nonexistent rail accident investigation body, and I believe that within 18 months, I succeeded in establishing, for the first time in Greece, a competent accident investigation agency. I set aside all other professional engagements, dedicating myself day and night, 365 days a year, to the monumental task of building HARSIA.
I believe that HARSIA has produced a sound report, invaluable for the future of rail transport in Greece. The only exception is the fireball issue, which, in the opinion of the entire council—as expressed in the minutes of February 26, 2025—merits further investigation. This has been my stance since the day the report was presented.
With awareness and responsibility, I hereby submit my resignation for personal and family reasons.
With great respect,
Christos Th. Papadimitriou, PhD