Athens drivers may soon see a change in their morning commute as authorities consider restricting heavy trucks on Kifissos Avenue, one of the city’s busiest roads. The proposal, under discussion by the Ministry of Transport, would ban trucks between 7:00 and 10:00 AM in a pilot program aimed at reducing daily traffic congestion.
Deputy Minister of Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis described the morning commute as a daily “ordeal” for drivers traveling from Piraeus to Faliro, with trips taking up to two hours due to long queues.
Data and Monitoring
The Ministry is currently using drones to measure traffic patterns, the number of vehicles, and the space they occupy. Results from these surveys are expected soon, providing a clearer picture of how effective the truck ban might be.
Pros and Cons
Kyranakis highlighted both advantages and drawbacks of the proposed restriction.
- Advantages: Fewer vehicles on Kifisos and the Attiki Odos highway during peak hours.
- Disadvantages: Traffic could become congested immediately before and after the restricted period, potentially shifting bottlenecks rather than eliminating them.
The deputy minister noted that supply deliveries in Athens are allowed from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making early morning adjustments feasible. However, managing the surge of trucks after 10:00 AM could still be challenging.
Pilot Approach and Public Impact
Kyranakis expressed support for the measure, acknowledging potential costs for businesses that require early-morning staff and how these costs might be passed to consumers. “It’s a solution we need to test, but we must be honest with the public about the consequences,” he said.
