The delivery of the first three stations of the Athens Metro Line extension to Piraeus is now a matter of time, according to ypodomes.com.
As sources close to the project report to the site, we are just one step before the operation, which is estimated after Easter, in May or in June, at the latest.
The only currently visible obstacle that could possibly extend the deadline is the pending installation and operation of the Automatic Fare Collection System (i.e. gates and machines for the electronic tickets).
It should be noted that, in the 2013 PPP contract, there was no provision for smart-ticketing systems in the extension to Piraeus, resulting to the order of additional machines (with an extension of the contract) but also the change of the design that originally included the old ticket validation system.
Based on information available OASA is making a race against time to complete these tasks on time. The projects have been undertaken by the J/V «HELLAS SMART TICKET», with the participation of LG CNS-TERNA ENERGY.
The last touches
As for the latest projects at Aghia Varvara, Korydallos and Nikea stations that are now underway, testing of the electromechanical systems is going on. Trial runs have also begun for the certification of the safety and functionality of the lines and systems.
In March, the interconnectopm is expected with the existing network in order for the final operation tests to commence. At the same time, the last architectural workw are being completed. The new stations are expected to be a new reference point for the public transport map in areas of Piraeus.
The operation of the remaining three stations is expected in 2022. The biggest ‘thorn’, is Piraeus Metro Station, which is now proceeding at a satisfactory pace. The projects are being carried out by J/V AVAX-GHELLA-ALSTOM and are funded by NSRF 2014-2020.
Piraeus Port to AIA in 1 hour
With the operation of the extension’s first half, Aghia Varvara, Korydallos and Nikea are coming closer to Athens, making the route between Nikea and Syntagma Square a matter of only 15 minutes.
Upon the extension’s conclusion in 2022, Line 3 will connect the port and center of Piraeus with the center of Athens and other major transport gates such as the Airport and the Central Railway Station. Piraeus Station will be then transformed into the largest transport hub in Attica region, owing to the existence of 2 Metro Stations (Line 1 and Line 3), a Suburban Railway Station, Tram, buses, trolley buses stops and the port.
The new section of Line 3 Aghia Marina-Nikea-Dimotiko Theatro will connect the densely populated areas of Aghia Varvara, Korydallos and Nikea to the Athenian Metro network giving to ‘new passengers’ access to important transport hubs such as Syntagma, Central Railway Station, Doukissis Plakentias, Piraeus Port and Athens International Airport.
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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: GianniM
