Cyprus will roll out an intelligent traffic light system by summer 2027, potentially reducing journey times by up to 25% and alleviating congestion in urban areas, the Ministry of Transport announced.
The €6.2 million project, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, will initially cover 125 traffic signal junctions in Nicosia and Limassol, with capabilities to expand to 500 intersections nationwide.
Implementation has been delayed by 2-3 months due to a procurement appeal before the Tenders Review Authority, with final contract award expected by June, according to officials close to the project.
“In countries where these systems have been installed, traffic reductions ranging from 10% to 35% have been observed,” Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said in an earlier statement.
The system will adapt green light duration based on real-time traffic conditions, prioritise public transport and emergency vehicles, and coordinate adjacent junctions to reduce stop-start driving patterns, the Department of Public Works said.
Officials expect the technology to deliver multiple benefits including a 15-30% reduction in traffic delays, up to 28% shorter travel times for public transport, and 8-10% lower fuel consumption.
The smart system will collect traffic data through sensors strategically positioned throughout urban road networks, process information in real time, and adjust traffic signals accordingly.
“One major advantage is that green light timing will be regulated based on waiting vehicles,” the ministry explained. “If there are no vehicles on one approach but queues on another, the green light will be extended where needed to prevent unnecessary waiting times”.
Additional features include immediate notifications of traffic light malfunctions, ability to implement strategic traffic management measures in specific areas, and remote monitoring from a central control room for incidents such as road works or collisions.
The contract includes a 24-month implementation period and five years of maintenance, along with supporting technical work such as excavations, chamber installations, facility upgrades, and training for Public Works Department officials.
Cyprus currently has approximately 370 traffic light-controlled intersections nationwide. The successful tenderer proposed implementing the project for €6,186,752, while the second bidder, who filed the appeal, offered €7,111,988.
“The goal is to eventually install smart traffic lights across Cyprus to enhance the efficiency of the road network,” Vafeades said.
The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund’s Cohesion Policy under the “THALIA 2021-2027” EU programme.
