Emergency traffic measures, which include targeted policing on the streets, strict controls for dangerous violations and a ban on the movement of trucks during peak hours and mass movements, have been planned by the ELAS Headquarters, which has prepared a special plan, for the safe movement of citizens and the prevention of traffic accidents, throughout the country’s road network.

As announced, the planning of the measures was carried out in the context of more specific orders from the Hellenic Police Headquarters for full and continuous activation, coordination and supervision of all Traffic Services, in order to ensure smooth and safe road traffic conditions throughout the country’s road network.

In particular, the measures include:

• policing of the road network by sector, based on the particular traffic conditions of each region,

• increased police presence and targeted policing at the points of the road network, where there is a frequency of traffic accidents,

• intensive traffic policing measures at the entrances and exits of large urban centers, where an increased traffic flow is observed,

• special actions and increased traffic measures within cities,

• increased traffic measures in places where there is a mass gathering of passengers (airports, ports, stations, etc.),

• creation of general and special traffic control teams, focusing attention on the verification of dangerous violations, as well as violations that, based on statistical data, are responsible for causing serious traffic accidents (excessive speed, driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal overtaking, use of mobile phones while driving , not using a protective helmet, etc.),

• informing the citizens through the competent Communication Services of the House, in any case where it becomes necessary to inform the public widely about the existence of any traffic and other problems.

For the implementation of the measures, patrol cars, motorcycles and conventional vehicles will be made available, with the corresponding personnel and equipment for the effective policing of the country’s road network, on a permanent basis.

Prohibition of trucks

During the festive season, traffic bans for trucks with a maximum permissible weight of more than 3.5 tons will apply, as stated in the relevant joint Ministerial Decision, as follows:

1. For the exit from urban centers, on Wednesday 14 August 2024, from 16:00 to 22:00, as well as on Saturday 17 August 2024 from 08:00 to 13:00:

2. For the return, on Sunday 18 August 2024, from 16:00 to 23:00.

Recommendations to citizens

The Greek Police, for safe movement, recommends to citizens:

• Before traveling, to have their vehicle inspected and informed about the state of the road network and weather conditions.

• Be especially careful when driving and observe the rules of the Road Traffic Code.

• To respect the road markings and comply with the instructions of the traffic wardens.

• Do not use mobile phones or other distracting devices while driving.

• Not to consume alcoholic beverages if they are going to drive.

• To protect the children riding in the vehicle, using child seats.

• Must “wear” seat belts, just like helmets on motorcycles.

• Not to overestimate their driving skills and the technical capabilities of their vehicles.

• To respect and protect fellow passengers and other people who use the road network, driving their vehicle responsibly and carefully.