48 Hour Taxi Strike Begins in Attica
Taxi drivers in Attica launched a new 48 hour strike on Tuesday 20 January, continuing through Wednesday 21 January, after the Attica Taxi Drivers Union announced escalating action. The stoppage began at 6:00 on Tuesday and will continue until 6:00 on Thursday.
Drivers Push Back Against New Legislation
The union warns that recent legislative provisions pose a direct threat to the survival of the sector. The primary point of contention is the mandatory shift to electric taxis starting 1 January 2026, a measure the union says is presented as a green transition but in reality results in financial hardship. Representatives argue that unlike other European countries where such transitions span a decade, Greece introduces the requirement abruptly amid high energy costs, insufficient charging infrastructure and steep vehicle prices.
Frustration Over Longstanding Sector Issues
The union highlights that the bill overlooks persistent institutional problems, including thousands of pending applications for special taxi licenses with no clear timeline for resolution. Drivers also stress the absence of measures against illegal ride hailing activity, loss of transport work to private vehicles and heavy taxation that restricts income.
Political Tensions Escalate
According to the union, responsibility for the situation now lies with the Prime Minister, noting that the Deputy Minister of Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis has become persona non grata for taxi drivers. They claim his stance prevents meaningful dialogue and only the Prime Minister can offer solutions.
Parliamentary Engagement
During the third day of the previous taxi strike on 15 January, union representatives held meetings with opposition parliamentary groups including PASOK, SYRIZA, Greek Solution and KKE. The parties expressed support for the drivers and pledged to exert pressure for immediate action.
Sector Meeting Scheduled
During the current 48 hour strike, an informational sector meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday 20 January at 10:00 at the Peristeri Exhibition Center to determine next steps.
Exceptions Deemed Insufficient
The ministry has proposed 2 exceptions to the mandatory transition to electric taxis: drivers aged 62 to 68 nearing retirement will receive extra time, and drivers whose vehicles have been destroyed will not be obligated to purchase an electric replacement immediately. Despite this, the union argues these measures offer minimal relief.
Planned Charging Infrastructure and Incentives
The deputy minister has also announced plans to establish charging points at taxi stands and reintroduce a subsidy program similar to the Green Taxis initiative.
Scope of Vehicle Replacement Requirement
The ministry states that only 270 taxis out of 29,000 nationwide will require replacement this year, less than 1 percent. However, the requirement applies only to Athens and Thessaloniki, where most licenses are concentrated, including 14,000 taxis in the capital alone.
Age Limits for Operating Taxis
The maximum age for operating a taxi is 15 years for vehicles up to 1850 cc and 18 years for vehicles above 1851 cc.
