“Dukas vs Michaïlidou: Who’s Responsible for E-Scooters Chaos in Athens?”

A new round of confrontation has erupted between Charis Dukas, Mayor of Athens, and Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Domna Michaïlidou, over the uncontrolled circulation and parking of electric scooters in the capital.

The Minister, in her letter, highlighted reports of illegal parking on sidewalks, ramps, and pedestrian crossings, creating dangerous situations for people with disabilities, the elderly, and children. She stated: “Sustainable mobility is a goal for all of us, but it cannot come at the expense of people with disabilities, the elderly, or children. The city belongs to everyone — without obstacles or exclusions.”

In response, Mayor Dukas emphasized that electric scooters operate freely under the Ministry of Development’s legislation, without prior authorization or zoning by municipalities. As he noted: “We consider it appropriate that such remarks be addressed primarily to the competent Ministries. The possibility for municipalities to designate parking spots is optional, not mandatory.”

In his official letter to Michaïlidou, the Mayor reminded that the Municipality of Athens has already conducted a study and public consultation for regulatory measures, aiming at:

• Designating zones and parking spaces for scooters.
• Pricing and managing scooter operations.
• Collaborating with disability organizations through the “Accessibility and Inclusion Working Group.”

Dukas pointed out that selectively forwarding concerns only to the Municipality of Athens causes confusion, and he urged the Minister to carefully review the existing legal framework before public interventions.

“The Municipality of Athens remains committed to improving urban mobility and enhancing accessibility for all citizens, in close cooperation with the State and social stakeholders,” the Mayor stressed, adding that the Municipality is ready to contribute its expertise and technical data to establish a clearer and more functional national micromobility framework.

This new confrontation highlights the conflict of responsibilities between the Municipality and the Government and brings to the forefront a critical issue of public safety, accessibility, and urban planning.

Against the backdrop of growing e-scooter usage, the political clash between Dukas and Michaïlidou is expected to continue, with Athenians watching closely to see who will ultimately take responsibility for the city’s safety and organization.

Source: pagenews.gr