Overview

• Approximately 14,000 taxi drivers launched the strike Wednesday to protest exclusive pick-up slots and fixed fares imposed by the finance ministry at Athens Airport.
• The drivers’ union is demanding an overhaul of taxi taxation along with cuts to value-added taxes on fares and fuel to address rising living costs.
• Convoys and blockades on major city arteries have effectively sidelined taxis through Thursday, intensifying pressure on government officials.
• Tourists face lengthy journeys on metros and buses for airport transfers as public transport struggles under increased demand.
• Authorities have added metro and bus services to ease congestion, but the taxi union says it will maintain the walkout until formal negotiations begin.