The opening day of the 88th Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) saw significant developments, highlighted by the meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and German Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck. However, two major announcements by Greek ministers also grabbed attention, focusing on public safety and transportation advancements.
Panic Button for Minors
At the Greek Police pavilion, Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrisochoidis announced a new safety measure: a panic button for minors, which was previously available only in cases of domestic abuse. Chrisochoidis stated, “Today, we are launching a new app, a panic button, which will be available to any minors or parents who wish to use it, so that at any moment, children in danger can call for help.”
Through this app, minors in danger will be able to alert authorities via their mobile phones. With geolocation capabilities, the authorities will be able to pinpoint the exact location of the child, enhancing response times and potentially reducing incidents of juvenile violence—a growing concern for Greek authorities.
First Thessaloniki Metro Ticket Issued
Another milestone was reached as the first Thessaloniki Metro digital ticket was issued today, under the name of Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Christos Staikouras. The ticket was presented at the OASTH (Organisation of Urban Transportation of Thessaloniki) pavilion, marking a key step toward the city’s long-awaited metro system.
This milestone took place in the presence of Deputy Ministers Nikos Tachiaos and Vassilis Oikonomou, alongside General Secretary of Transport Despina Paliarouta. Prime Minister Mitsotakis had previously promised that the Thessaloniki metro would be operational by November 30.
General Secretary of Transport Despina Paliarouta
The new automated fare system includes both the “ThessTicket,” an electronic ticket option, and the “ThessCard,” an unlimited travel card. A mobile application is also in development, aiming to further assist commuters.
