European Mobility Week: Why can't we walk or bike in Athens?

Unimpeded pedestrian access, extensive use of bicycles, and public transportation provide the foundation of sustainable mobility in an urban setting. In Athens, we provide time for all of the aforementioned activities for several days each September during the European Mobility Week events. What prevents us from traversing the town? Each year during this period, the European Mobility Week is conducted, an initiative that advocates for sustainable transportation in urban areas, namely walking, the regular use of bicycles, and public transit. The events conclude this Sunday, September 22, designated by Europe as Car Free Day. Throughout its length, some highways are often blocked, and activities are conducted in various municipalities of Attica and around Greece. The municipality of Athens has unveiled its plans, and Mayor Haris Doukas has provided pertinent remarks. We are conveying a powerful message. He said in the statement detailing the activities organized by the municipality on a segment of Athena Street, "We desire cities where automobiles do not hold a predominant status." It also developed the instruments to actualize sustainable mobility in public spaces. This instrument is referred to as the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SBAK). The formulation of such a plan delineates the methods and directions that a municipality must implement to enhance sustainable mobility within the city, and all municipalities with a population above 30,000 are mandated to do this planning. However, there are plenty of questions that arise and need further discussion. Specifically, some of the questions that enhance public discussion can be the following: How will local authorities address the issues posed by the traffic congestion in Athens? In what manner would the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan tool enhance sustainable mobility within the city? Source: https://www.lifo.gr/stiles/optiki-gonia/giati-den-mporoyme-na-perpatisoyme-i-na-metakinithoyme-me-podilato-stin-athina