The Mayor of Glyfada, Giorgos Papanikolaou, has announced plans to pursue legal action against HEDNO, Greece’s main electricity distribution operator, following deadly floods in the city that claimed the life of a woman last week.
Papanikolaou has publicly blamed an underground power network project near Mount Hymettus, claiming it obstructed a natural stream and led to a buildup of water and debris that later collapsed, flooding downstream areas. He has announced plans to pursue legal action against the operator.
The mayor also criticized HEDNO for failing to inform the municipality about the project or provide documentation regarding the studies conducted or the safety measures in place. He said the city has commissioned an independent technical investigation to fully document the incident and determine responsibility.
In a detailed social media post accompanied by photographs, Papanikolaou further accused HEDNO of improperly handling underground cabling works near Metsovou Street, which he claims caused a blockage in a local stream. According to the mayor, accumulated soil and debris formed a makeshift dam measuring approximately 15 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 8 meters in height, containing at least 1,200 cubic meters of material.
“When the dam broke, it released a massive surge of water and debris, sweeping away large rocks and flooding downstream areas, including Metsovou and Antheon streets,” Papanikolaou wrote, adding that experts consulted by the municipality support this assessment.
He stressed that legal action is necessary “so that the full truth comes out and responsibility is assigned where it belongs,” while vowing to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
HEDNO Rejects Accusations
HEDNO has firmly rejected the allegations, denying responsibility for the flood damage caused by last week’s severe weather.
In a formal statement, the operator said the project is fully legal, based on approved technical and environmental studies, and carried out as part of Greece’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan, which aims to modernize and safeguard critical energy infrastructure.
“The undergrounding of the R-350 power line on Mount Hymettus complies with all regulatory requirements and prioritizes public safety and environmental protection,” the company said, adding that it remains committed to the safe and reliable operation of the electricity distribution network.
Responding directly to the mayor’s legal warning, HEDNO said it welcomes judicial review, stating that it will help establish the facts “away from impression-driven disputes and unproductive conflict.”
