Athens Metro is the largest and most complex transportation construction project currently underway in Greece and one of the largest in Europe. The new underground Metro system will consist of two lines radiating in four directions from Syntagma Square to Pentagono, Dafni, Sepolia and Keramikos. A total 21 stations will be built, serving approximately 450 000 daily passengers when the system becomes operating. This is an addition to the 330 000 passengers currently being served by the existing Metro line connecting Pireas with Omonia Square and Kifissia. Trains will run every 3 minutes in rush hour, and every 5-10 minutes in non-rush hour. The two new lines will connect with the existing Metro line at Omonia, Monastiraki and Attiki Stations.Plans to extend the system to serve the outer districts of Athens are underway.

What is the cost?

The total cost is estimated to be 2 billion ECU (587 billion GDR) in 1996 currency values. The European Union and the European Investment Bank are financing up to 90% of the project through loans and grants, while the Greek government is providing the remaining funds. The involvement of the EU and EIB provides a stable and predictable source of funding over the life of the project, while strict financial and administrative controls protect the interests of the Greek citizens.

Who is building the project?

ATTIKO METRO S.A., a private company established by law in 1991, is managing the project. International mass transit experts are working together with Greek technical professionalism order to ensure proper and timely completion of the project. The contractor is OLYMPIC METRO, a consortium of 23 Greek, German and French companies that are working together to construct the project with fixed-price turnkey contract.

What benefits will it provide?

Less traffic congestion- total number of daily automobile will be reduced by 250 000- with a resulting substantial decrease I toxic emissions and an overall improvement of quality of life for Athenians. The Metro will also provide a faster and more reliable transportation system, help save energy, stimulate economic development, five the opportunity to uncover archaeological treasures.