Greece transport and maritime infrastructure upgrades

Greece is implementing several large-scale infrastructure and transport modernization projects.

In the maritime sector, the government is investing over €62 million to expand and modernize the National Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS). Managed by the Hellenic Coast Guard, the project involves upgrading seven existing maritime traffic control centers and establishing three new ones in Thessaloniki, Elefsina, and Neapoli Volou. The initiative aims to enhance navigation safety, search and rescue operations, and environmental protection in compliance with international guidelines.

Furthering maritime development, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vasilis Kikilias announced the completion of 13 major port infrastructure projects totaling €78.4 million. Funded primarily by the ‘Greece 2.0’ Recovery Fund, these upgrades target both island and mainland regions to improve safety, accessibility, and resilience.

Significant investments of approximately €59.3 million were allocated to Alexandroupoli, Stylida, and Volos. Completed works in Alexandroupoli included dredging the port basin and channel alongside improved road connections. In Stylida, the basin was dredged and the channel widened, while in Volos, functional depths were restored following damage from storms Daniel and Elias. Additional improvements were finalized in Ioannina, Argostoli, Heraklion, Samos, Leros, Agia Roumeli, Kastellorizo, and Sitia. The Ministry intends to extend port upgrades through the 2021-2027 NSRF and the upcoming 2026-2030 Sectoral Development Program.

Simultaneously, the transport sector is seeing significant urban upgrades. In Athens and Thessaloniki, metro usage has increased, supported by the implementation of 24-hour operations for metro, tram, and select bus lines on Saturdays. Additionally, the Attica region is undergoing a major bus fleet renewal with the introduction of 1,076 new anti-pollution buses, while the ‘Ariadne’ program works to improve security at public transport hubs.