Kypseli cracks part of an ‘evolving’ process, says expert

Athens Mayor Haris Doukas has demanded written assurances regarding the structural safety of buildings impacted by metro construction in the Kypseli district, following reports of cracks and damage affecting approximately 200 apartments. During a meeting held at City Hall with representatives of Elliniko Metro and local residents, Doukas emphasized the need for independent expert assessments and legal compliance in addressing the issues. The mayor stated that the municipality is supporting affected residents and requesting measures such as compensation, restoration work, and transparency on resuming operations on Metro Line 4 after expert evaluations. The situation arose after residents in Kypseli reported visible damage to their homes, which they attributed to ongoing construction activities. The discussions centered on the structural integrity of the affected buildings and the potential risks posed by the excavation work. Doukas expressed concern over the current state of affairs, stating that the tunnel-boring machine has been halted pending further analysis from specialists. The Athens City Council also voiced its support for a comprehensive investigation, immediate repairs, and regular communication with the public regarding the status of the project. According to Panagiotis Karidis, a professor emeritus of earthquake-resistant structures, the damage observed in Kypseli is likely due to ground subsidence resulting from tunneling for the new metro line. In an interview with state broadcaster ERT, Karidis described the phenomenon as potentially more alarming than an earthquake, noting that the process is still evolving. He warned against premature repairs, suggesting that sealing cracks before the ground stabilizes might render future interventions ineffective. Karidis highlighted the unique geological characteristics of the area, which includes soft soil, a high water table, and former streambeds that have been covered over. Residents have expressed frustration over the recent developments, particularly one homeowner whose century-old house reportedly developed cracks after the tunneling activity commenced. She told ERT that her home had endured numerous natural phenomena, including earthquakes, without issue, but the current situation was different. She mentioned that windows had become jammed and called for new geotechnical studies, thorough structural inspections, and full restoration of the damage. Her comments reflect a broader sentiment among locals who feel that the damage is a direct consequence of human intervention rather than natural occurrences. Deputy Infrastructure Minister Nikos Tachiaos addressed the issue earlier on Thursday, stating that preliminary inspections did not find evidence of structural unsafety in the affected buildings. He confirmed that the consortium responsible for constructing the new metro line would cover the costs of repairing cracks linked to the tunneling work. However, his remarks were met with skepticism from some residents and experts, who argue that the focus should remain on ensuring long-term stability and preventing further damage. As the situation unfolds, both officials and residents await the results of expert assessments that will determine the next course of action. The halt in tunneling operations underscores the gravity of the issue, while the calls for transparency and accountability highlight the growing pressure on authorities to address the concerns of the community. With the possibility of further ground movement, the emphasis on stabilization and careful planning remains critical to safeguarding both the infrastructure and the homes of Kypseli's residents.