Athens Mayor Haris Doukas has sent a letter to the head of Greece’s railway infrastructure operator, OSE, calling for urgent action on unprotected railway crossings in the city. The appeal comes after a pedestrian was fatally struck by a train on September 5 at the intersection of Konstantinoupoleos and Athinon avenues.

In his letter, Doukas emphasized that despite dozens of citizen complaints and repeated warnings from the Athens municipality, OSE has failed to implement safety measures, repair critical infrastructure, or safeguard pedestrians and vehicles at these crossings.

The mayor cited a recent incident where the municipality attempted to fill a pothole at the level crossing of Konstantinoupoleos and Lenorman streets. The technical contractor was reportedly prevented by an OSE-appointed guard from performing the repair.

The issue has also drawn attention from national lawmakers. PASOK parliamentary representative Pavlos Geroulanos called it “unthinkable” that unprotected crossings still exist in central Athens, highlighting ongoing public concern despite repeated local interventions.

Doukas urged OSE to personally ensure that all necessary measures are taken immediately, including safeguarding crossings, repairing road surfaces within the rail network, and improving signage to prevent further tragedies.

The municipality maintains that it has taken steps beyond its official responsibilities to protect residents, but stresses that ultimate responsibility lies with OSE.