Archive · 16 Jan 2026
Greece Mandates Safety Investments After Deadly Train Crash
Greece has told a train company called Hellenic Train to spend a lot of money on new, safer trains and fixing old ones.
This is because there was a very bad train crash in 2023 that killed many people.
The government says the company must do this by 2027, or they can cancel the deal.
The new trains will have special systems to help drivers talk to each other and control the brakes from far away.
There will also be money spent on fixing train stations and other important things.
A court case about the crash is expected to start soon, and the train company says they are ready to help with the investigation.
Greece requires Hellenic Train to invest 420 million euros in new trains and maintenance to improve safety.
The investment includes 308 million euros for new electric trains and 100 million euros for maintenance and infrastructure.
The contract includes a break clause allowing the state to terminate if trains are not delivered by 2027.
The requirements follow a deadly train crash in 2023 that killed 57 people, mostly students.
New trains will feature remote communication and brake control systems, with a trial expected to start in March 2024.
- Who
- Greek government and Hellenic Train (Italian-owned railway operator)
- What
- Greece is requiring Hellenic Train to invest in new trains and maintenance to improve safety
- When
- The requirements were approved on January 16, 2024, following a 2023 train crash
- Where
- Greece, with the crash occurring near Larissa
- Why
- To address safety deficiencies highlighted after the deadly train crash
- Investment Amount
- 420 million euros
- Investment Breakdown
- 308 million euros for new trains, 100 million euros for maintenance and infrastructure
- Contract Termination Clause
- State can terminate contract if trains not delivered by 2027
- Accident Date
- February 28, 2023
- Accident Location
- Near Larissa, Greece
- Fatalities
- 57 people, mostly students
- Trial Start Date
- Expected in March 2024