A serious traffic accident involving two public transport buses in Voula, a coastal suburb of Athens, has left 47 people injured, including ten teenagers, and raised urgent questions about how such a crash occurred on a busy route during daylight hours.
What Led to the Collision?
The accident took place on Poseidonos Avenue, near the A’ Beach of Voula, in the direction toward Sounio. According to early reports, an articulated bus had just completed a stop and was beginning to move again when it was struck from behind by a smaller bus operating on the same line.
The driver of the second bus reportedly felt unwell moments before the impact and was unable to brake in time. This, combined with what is believed to be a misjudgment of the first vehicle’s movement, resulted in a violent rear-end collision.
Both buses were operating on routes 122 and 122B, which connect the southern suburbs of Athens with popular coastal destinations such as Varkiza and Saronida. At the time of the crash, both vehicles were carrying numerous passengers, including young people heading to the beach.
Emergency Response and Injuries
Rescue teams responded swiftly. The fire brigade, traffic police, and National Emergency Centre (EKAV) dispatched eight ambulances, three mobile medical units, and two motorcycle teams to the scene.
All 47 injured individuals, including ten minors aged 14 to 16, were taken to three hospitals in Athens:
- Asklipieio Hospital (Voula)
- G. Gennimatas General Hospital
- Aglaia Kyriakou Children’s Hospital
While most injuries were minor, five people remain hospitalized, three of them in more serious condition. A 47-year-old woman is expected to undergo surgery, though officials have confirmed that no lives are currently at risk.
What Witnesses and Officials Say
According to statements from the scene, the first bus had already resumed movement when it was hit from behind. The front section of the second bus was severely damaged, and investigators are examining whether the driver’s sudden illness, fatigue, or other factors played a decisive role.
Grigoris Konstantellos, the local mayor, confirmed that the crash involved a “bendy” bus and a smaller bus and took place near the Asklipieio hospital, an area often busy with summer traffic.
Traffic Disruption
The accident caused major traffic delays for several hours on Poseidonos Avenue, a main thoroughfare along the Athens Riviera. Authorities worked throughout the morning to remove the vehicles and clear the roadway.
The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. Police are expected to analyze driver testimonies, medical reports, and surveillance footage to clarify how the crash unfolded and whether safety procedures were followed.
