Greek Police explain traffic detours, warn of worsening weather

The Hellenic Police on Tuesday clarified traffic detours on the Athens–Thessaloniki national highway amid ongoing farmer protests, rejecting claims that police actions — rather than tractors — caused congestion during the holiday period.

In a statement, police said traffic is being redirected at the Martino interchange, nearly eight kilometers before the farmers’ roadblock at Kastro in Viotia, north of Thebes. Traffic heading to Athens is diverted onto a side road, while vehicles traveling toward Thessaloniki continue using a single lane of the main highway.

According to AMNA, Police stressed that the detour is a preventive safety measure, not a full road closure. Allowing vehicles to pass through the protest site, they said, would require dangerous maneuvers to avoid farm machinery, pedestrians and temporary obstacles on the roadway.

To assist drivers, police released video footage and maps of alternative routes, available on the Hellenic Police website.

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Authorities also warned of deteriorating weather conditions in the coming days, urging motorists to exercise caution, especially on narrowed roads. Extra vigilance was advised for Sunday, Jan. 4, when heavy traffic is expected as holidaymakers return to Athens.