kathimerini.gr
Elderly Man Killed by Train in Athens; Underground Rail Lines Debate Reignited
An elderly man died yesterday morning in Athens after being struck by a Hellenic Train in the Metaxourgio area while crossing the tracks at an at-grade crossing on Konstantinoupoleos Street, prompting renewed calls for the undergrounding of rail lines.
- What are the immediate consequences of this accident, and what specific actions are being discussed?
- The accident has reignited the debate about undergrounding Athens' rail lines. While this is considered a costly undertaking, experts are calling for solutions to mitigate the risk of future accidents at at-grade crossings. The ongoing undergrounding project in Sepolia is proceeding slowly.
- What are the underlying causes contributing to this type of accident, and what are their broader implications?
- The main causes are the existence of at-grade crossings, and the habit of pedestrians ignoring designated crossings. While the Hellenic Train has attempted to close unauthorized crossings, there is resistance from local residents and municipalities. This situation highlights the need for improved safety measures and public awareness.
- What are the potential long-term solutions and their feasibility, considering the various perspectives involved?
- The long-term solution is the undergrounding of the rail lines within Athens. This is viewed as expensive, but necessary to eliminate at-grade crossings and drastically reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents. The feasibility depends on overcoming the significant cost and potential disruptions of such a project.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the issue, quoting both supporters and opponents of undergrounding railway lines. However, the headline focusing on a single tragic accident could be perceived as framing the issue negatively towards the railway system, even though the article itself explores multiple perspectives and solutions. The inclusion of the expert's opinion, highlighting the role of car accidents in pedestrian deaths and the environmental benefits of trains, offers a counterbalance.
Language Bias
The language used is mostly neutral, although terms like "tragiko dystychima" (tragic accident) in the opening sentence might be considered emotionally charged. However, this is common in journalistic reporting of accidents. The article largely avoids loaded language, providing quotes from various sources allowing the reader to form their own opinion.
Bias by Omission
The article omits specific details about safety measures already in place on the railway line, such as the number and type of warning systems at the crossing where the accident occurred. Additionally, a deeper exploration of the economic feasibility of undergrounding the lines and alternative solutions could provide a more complete picture. The article touches upon the slow progress of the Sepolia undergrounding project but doesn't provide concrete details about the causes of the delay.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the need for undergrounding railway lines in Athens to improve urban safety and reduce accidents. This directly relates to SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The proposed solution addresses safety concerns for pedestrians and aims to create more livable urban spaces.