Mar 13 • 13:23 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece Naftemporiki

Odontotos Kalavryta: Rock slides on the tracks – The increasing risk led to the suspension of the line (Video)

Rock slides on the Odontotos railway tracks have led to the temporary suspension of the tourist line connecting Diakofto and Kalavryta due to increasing safety risks.

Recent rock slides have posed significant risks to the Odontotos railway, particularly in the Vouraikos gorge where large boulders have fallen onto the tracks. Notably, a rock fell during a train's passage, resulting in material damage but no injuries, highlighting the urgent safety concerns for this popular tourist route. The picturesque route, which connects Diakofto and Kalavryta, has increasingly witnessed these incidents, raising alarms about the structural integrity of the railway and the geological conditions of Mount Chelmos which are to blame for these occurrences.

The situation points to the need for urgent intervention to address the geological hazards that are beyond the jurisdiction of Hellenic Railways (OSE). The local forest authority is likely to be involved, indicating that collaboration between different government bodies may be necessary to mitigate the risks associated with the ongoing geological instability. The increasing frequency of these rock slides emphasizes the importance of ensuring passenger safety on this historic railway, which not only serves as a mode of transport but also as a vital economic resource for local tourism.

As the safety of this scenic train route comes into question, local authorities must prioritize the evaluation and implementation of proper geological assessments and remedial measures. Without effective action, the suspension of the train service may become a longer-lasting issue, affecting tourism and providing economic repercussions for the communities dependent on this railroad.

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