Taxi drivers in Athens are set to stage a work stoppage on Tuesday, June 10, from 3:00 p.m. to midnight, in protest against provisions in a new traffic code that they say unfairly target their profession. The action, organized by the Attica Taxi Drivers’ Union (SATA), will also include a vehicle demonstration starting at 5:00 p.m. at the intersection of Spyrou Patsi Street and Athinon Avenue.

The protest is being held in response to a new legislative proposal concerning traffic regulations in Greece, which the union says introduces measures that undermine the working conditions of taxi drivers.

Main Points of Contention

At the center of the dispute are two key issues in the new traffic code:

  1. Exclusion from Bus Lanes: Under the proposed changes, taxis will no longer be allowed to use bus lanes — a right they currently have. Taxi drivers argue that this change will significantly affect their ability to move efficiently through the city, especially during peak hours, impacting both their earnings and the service offered to passengers.
  2. 30-Second Pick-Up/Drop-Off Rule: The legislation introduces a strict 30-second limit for passenger pick-up or drop-off in designated areas. SATA says the restriction is impractical and does not reflect the realities of everyday operation, particularly in busy urban areas.

Statement from the Union

In a statement ahead of the action, the union criticized the Transport Minister, labeling his stance “unjustifiably hostile” toward the sector and accusing him of ignoring both professional drivers and the needs of passengers. The union emphasized that the goal of the demonstration is twofold: to raise public awareness and to send a message to the government and Prime Minister.

“The new traffic code is being voted on this week and leaves taxis out of bus lanes,” the statement reads. “The Transport Minister once again mocks our profession with the 30-second rule. He shows disrespect not only to professional drivers but especially to the passengers who rely on taxis.”

SATA also described the broader political context as a “rigged game” and accused the Ministry of Transport of avoiding meaningful dialogue. “Tomorrow’s protest is a fight for dignity — ours and that of those we transport,” the statement concluded.