A comprehensive investigation by the National Aviation Investigation Agency and Railway Accidents and Transportation Safety (HARSIA) has revealed that Greece’s deadliest rail accident in 2023 was a result of lingering safety deficiencies that must be remedied to prevent future tragedies, the day before the second anniversary of the incident.
The collision between a passenger train and a freight train near Larissa on February 28, 2023, claimed the lives of 57 individuals, sparking public outrage and widespread protests as families of the victims accused authorities of attempting to conceal evidence. The crash triggered a massive fireball and an explosion of unknown origin, resulting in most casualties from the impact, with up to seven deaths attributed to the ensuing fire.
HARSIA’s report raised concerns about the possible presence of an unidentified fuel at the crash site. A separate investigation by experts funded by the victims’ families alleged that the freight train was carrying illegal and undisclosed explosive chemicals, contributing to the high death toll. However, the Italian-owned operator Hellenic Train denied any knowledge of illicit cargo on the train.
Christos Papadimitriou, head of HARSIA, described the report as a thorough evaluation of the rail system’s shortcomings that will inform future improvements. The agency highlighted the detrimental effects of drastic budget cuts during the 2009-18 Greek economic crisis on the country’s rail infrastructure, emphasizing the excessive workload imposed on operational staff at the state-run Hellenic Railways Organisation (OSE). Furthermore, Hellenic Train was criticized for lacking adequate training programs, particularly in safety-related communications and non-technical competencies.
HARSIA issued 17 recommendations for regulatory authorities, Hellenic Train, OSE, and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation. A judicial inquiry is expected to be concluded by the end of the year. The upcoming anniversary will be commemorated with widespread strikes and protests in Greece and abroad.
