Gümülcine Municipality slams Egnatia Motorway operator over toll policy changes
The Municipality of Gümülcine has issued a strong response against Egnatia Odos S.A. over recent changes to toll exemptions affecting residents in the region of Thrace.
In an official statement released on April 7, 2026, municipal authorities criticized the company’s decision to modify—and in some cases fully revoke—the free passage rights previously granted to permanent residents.
Residents Face Unexpected Costs
According to the municipality, the decision was implemented without prior consultation or public notice, leaving local residents facing unexpected financial burdens.
Individuals who had long benefited from toll exemptions are now required to pay standard motorway fees, a move the municipality says directly impacts daily mobility and regional economic activity.
Freelancers Disproportionately Affected
The statement highlighted that self-employed professionals have been particularly affected by the policy shift. Authorities noted that the company justified the changes by requiring toll cards to be strictly linked to both a specific vehicle and driver—effectively excluding many users from eligibility.
“Unfair and Unjustified” Decision
Municipal officials described the move as unfair and disconnected from the needs of the local population, arguing that it undermines longstanding support mechanisms for residents in Thrace.
They further suggested that the decision raises concerns about potentially premeditated practices that fail to protect regional interests.
Call for Immediate Reversal
The Municipality of Komotini called on the motorway operator to reverse what it described as injustices and to reinstate the previous support policy that ensured free or reduced toll access for permanent residents.
The dispute highlights growing tensions between local authorities and infrastructure operators over access, affordability, and regional equity in northern Greece.
Gümülcine Municipality condemns Egnatia Motorway operator over scrapping free toll access for Thrace residents, calling the move unfair and unjustified.
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