Athens city center descended into severe congestion on Wednesday as taxi drivers mounted a surprise motorcade to the Greek Parliament amid their ongoing 48-hour strike.

The unannounced convoy forced police to introduce new traffic restrictions in real time, creating widespread disruption across major roads and central avenues.

Tensions Earlier at the Transport Ministry

The escalation followed a tense confrontation earlier in the day at the Transport Ministry. According to reports, taxi drivers attempted to enter the building to demand a meeting with officials. Riot police blocked their entry, leading to a brief clash at the ministry’s gate.

Police deployed a limited amount of tear gas to disperse the crowd, after which the situation stabilised.

Strike Action Continues

The motorcade forms part of a broader wave of protest actions by taxi drivers, who are in the second day of a 48-hour strike. Their demands were not detailed in Wednesday’s events, but the demonstrations indicate intensifying pressure on the government as negotiations remain stalled.

Traffic delays are expected to persist in central Athens as the motorcade continues its route toward Parliament.