Traveling with train from Athens to Thessaloniki will take not more than 3.5 hours. This will happen after December 2013, when the construction of the railway Athens-Thessaloniki will finish.

The information was announced on a press conference given by the Greek Minister of Transportation Evripidis Stilianidis.

“Modernization and development of the railway transportation is a big reform of itself, one big national project. I am sure that we will succeed,” said the minister.

Until now 50% of the tunnel construction in Orphis mountain, through which the train will pass, is done.

This is part of OCE’s strategic plans for further development of the railway infrastructure of the country until 2020. ?3.2 billion have been allocated for the finalization of the main railway Parta-Athens-Thessaloniki.

The modernization of the railway will significantly increase its share from the total passenger and cargo transportation.

The opportunities to attract private capitals for the construction and modernization of the main and additional railway infrastructure are seriously considered.

It is supposed that this will lead to a faster development of the railway network and a better service quality, security and accessibility.