Five independent MPs demand answers over €3 billion Meriç plan
Five independent MPs have called on the Greek government to explain the drastic reduction of the Meriç (Evros) reconstruction plan, from the €3 billion master plan announced in 2024 to a new package of 108 projects worth €309.9 million.
The parliamentary question was submitted by Theodora Tzakri, Alexandros Avlonitis, Myrto Korovesi, Kyriaki Malama and Giota Poulou, who are seeking answers from the ministers responsible for civil protection, finance, development, and infrastructure and transport.
The lawmakers say the new plan represents a reduction of about 90% from the original proposal, which was presented in Kumçiftliği (Orestiada) following the devastating 2023 wildfires in Meriç (Evros).
Rail project among concerns
The MPs are particularly questioning the reported exclusion of major projects, including the electrification of the railway, estimated at about €700 million.
They are asking what will happen to European funding reportedly already secured for projects included in the original plan.
The government has maintained that no announced projects or funding will be lost, but the lawmakers argue that the sharp reduction in the overall budget requires detailed clarification.
Benos controversy
The issue intensified after Stavros Benos, who had been involved in coordinating the original reconstruction plan, expressed strong dissatisfaction during a recent meeting of the Meriç (Evros) Reconstruction Committee in Nea Vyssa.
According to reports, Benos said he had not been informed about the new study before attending the meeting and indicated that he could leave the reconstruction effort.
Tzakri, Avlonitis, Korovesi, Malama and Poulou are asking the government to clarify who commissioned and approved the new study and who will assume responsibility for coordinating the reconstruction if Benos steps down.
Calls for transparency
The five MPs are also demanding detailed information on the progress of reconstruction projects, including those approved, tendered, under construction and completed.
They want the government to publish the funding already secured, current absorption rates, project timetables and financing sources for the new plan.
They are also calling for a comprehensive public report on all government commitments to the reconstruction of Meriç (Evros) since the 2023 fires.
The controversy has intensified political pressure on the government, with opposition figures demanding greater transparency over the future of the strategically important border region.
