The Greek government is under fire for the problems caused by heavy snowfall. Emergency services had to evacuate thousands of people this week after being stranded in their cars on a snow-covered highway near Athens. The media is talking about a “fiasco”.
Emergency services are still on the road to remove hundreds of abandoned vehicles. Many people left the road on foot, leaving their cars behind. The government and the private company that maintains the highway have apologized for the massive congestion. Some motorists had spent the night from Monday to Tuesday in their cars. Soldiers distributed food, water and blankets on the road.
The highway operator blames “car problems and lack of experience among drivers”. The CEO of the organization has resigned. Victims of motorists will receive 2000 euros in compensation. Train passengers who get stuck at a station north of Athens can claim compensation of 1000 euros.
Several neighbourhoods of the Greek capital were without power. Repair work has not yet been completed due to poor accessibility due to the snow. In the city of Thessaloniki, a homeless man died from the effects of the cold.
Greece declared Tuesday and Wednesday as national holidays. Government buildings and most businesses are closed as a result. However, supermarkets, pharmacies and gas stations are open.