N. Hardalias: We are immediately beginning dredging and cleanup work on the Ilissos River

A program agreement worth 12.8 million was signed today by Attica Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias as part of the strategic regional plan to improve flood protection and protecting the Athens Basin from the effects of climate change.

Funding for the project, which is of crucial importance for enhancing security in the Southern Sector of Athens, will be provided by the Region of Attica and the 2021 – 2025.

The Ilissos River, with a drainage basin of 43 square kilometers and a length of 10 kilometers, is one of the main natural waterways, as it originates from the northwestern springs of Mount Hymettus and, flowing southeast, empties into the Faliro Bay. For the most part, it has been channelized in the past with a closed cross-section, over which urban infrastructure—such as boulevards, tram lines, and green spaces—has been developed. These interventions have significantly reduced its drainage capacity, making it vulnerable to flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.

Recognizing the urgent need for flood protection in the region, the Region is proceeding with the following measures:

– Dredging and clearing the Ilissos riverbed of sediment, debris, and various other obstacles that reduce water flow.

– Reconstruction of three bridges that have experienced serious drainage problems in the past:

– The bridge on Ethnarch Makarios Street, which will be modified in both width and height to improve traffic flow.

– The Poseidonos Avenue bridge, which will be demolished and replaced by a new pedestrian bridge, ensuring better drainage and an upgrade of the surrounding area.

– The existing metal pedestrian bridge, which will be moved, maintained, and reinstalled.

– Construction of a seawall using special clay materials that will be transported to the project site to ensure that all work can be carried out safely.

The project aims to comprehensively enhance the drainage capacity of the Ilissos River, while also helping to reduce flood risks, thereby protecting the surrounding areas from catastrophic events.

On the occasion of the signing of the project contract, Regional Governor N. Hardalias stated: «Following the cleanup of the underground sections of the Kifissos River and the Pikrodafni stream network—which is continuing at an intensive pace— today we are taking yet another important step toward ensuring the safety and quality of life for citizens throughout the Athens Basin. Protecting Attica against the challenges of climate change is our non-negotiable priority. The Ilissos, a river with a long history that is intertwined with the development of Athens, must regain its functionality. With this project—one of a total of 53 flood-control projects we aim to implement by the end of 2028— we are not only protecting our neighborhoods from flood risks but also highlighting the importance of rational management of our natural resources. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, and I am personally committed to the swift and effective completion of the project within the next 12 months.».

On behalf of the contractor, AKTOR’s General Project Manager, Anastasios Aranitis, noted that «This is a very important engineering project that will protect the Ilissos area from the risk of flooding. We have the capacity, the personnel, and the experience to meet the needs that have arisen, in order to deliver a high-quality flood protection project.».