Greece Train Tragedy Sparks Nationwide Protests—Millions Demand Justice

There were massive protests across the country on Friday over the country's worst train accident that happened two years ago in Greece. Millions of people took to the streets demanding justice, while the strike completely halted air, sea and rail services.

What happened two years ago?

On 28 February 2023, a passenger train carrying a large number of students collided with a freight train near Tempi Gorge. 57 people were killed in this tragic accident.

Why has justice not been served yet?

• The investigation found that there was gross negligence in security behind the accident, but no one has been proven guilty till date.

• The government kept itself away from responsibility by citing judicial process.

• Opposition parties and families of the victims allege that the government tried to hide the evidence.

Effect of demonstrations and strike

• International and domestic flights remained completely canceled as air traffic controllers also participated in the strike.

• Many organizations including doctors, lawyers, teachers, sailors, train drivers went on a 24-hour strike.

• The protesters raised slogans like "The government is a killer" in front of the Parliament building in Athens.

• The names of those killed in the accident were written in red color in front of the Parliament.

• Students in schools mourned by wearing black clothes, many students also waved black balloons.

People's anger and government's response

• The protesters believe that this was not an accident but a murder.

• The government promised to modernize the railway system, but the public believes that this is just a pretense.

• The public of Greece has already lost faith in the government in the economic crisis of 2009-2018.

What will happen next?

The Greek Parliament will decide next week whether to form an investigation committee to determine political responsibility in this case.

In a recent survey, 82% of Greek citizens believed that this accident is the most serious issue in the country, and 66% are unhappy with the investigation.

Last messages that will shake your heart

During the demonstration, the students raised slogans like "Message me when you reach there", which were the last messages of the students who died in the accident. A nurse said, "Today these were someone else's children, tomorrow they could be ours."

This incident in Greece has raised a big question on the policies of the government. Now it has to be seen whether the victims will get justice or this accident will also remain limited to government promises only.