Modernization of Bahçeköy Border Crossing advances ahead of schedule

Following an inspection visit to the construction site, Dimitris Galamatis, Secretary General of the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Administration, said the project was moving forward at an “exemplary pace” and could be completed before the onset of harsh winter conditions.

NEW INSPECTION FACILITIES UNDER CONSTRUCTION

As part of the modernization project, a new building equipped with advanced X-ray scanning systems is being constructed, alongside a separate facility dedicated to narcotics inspections. Authorities are also developing key infrastructure elements, including a vehicle inspection platform and an under-vehicle control pit.

Road construction and excavation works are continuing simultaneously across various sections of the border crossing as crews work to upgrade the facility’s overall capacity and efficiency.

MORE LANES TO REDUCE WAITING TIMES

Officials stated that, in addition to renovating existing facilities and constructing new buildings, the number of entry and exit lanes will be increased. The expansion is expected to significantly reduce waiting times for travelers and commercial vehicles entering Greece from Türkiye.

The project aims to improve border management, streamline inspections and facilitate smoother cross-border traffic at one of the region’s busiest transit points.

POTENTIAL MODEL FOR PUBLIC INVESTMENT PROJECTS

Speaking about the project's progress, Galamatis expressed optimism that construction could be completed before winter weather affects operations.

“This project could serve as an example of how public investments can be implemented quickly and effectively,” he said.

Galamatis added that once the modernization works are completed, authorities intend to present the project as a case study demonstrating how administrative obstacles were overcome and procedures accelerated to ensure efficient delivery.