Cyprus is investing tens of millions of euros to tackle traffic congestion through alternative transport solutions, including cycling and walking initiatives, Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said on Monday.
Speaking at an October 28 parade event in Larnaca, Vafeades emphasised that traffic management requires a multi-faceted approach beyond public transport, including examining daily routines such as school and work schedules.
The minister revealed that vehicle numbers in Limassol had doubled over the past decade. “No road network can handle such an increase in private vehicles, and you cannot build roads fast enough to keep up with this growth”, he said.
Responding to reports about a potential ban on polluting vehicles in central Nicosia, Vafeades firmly denied making any such statement. “This option has never been presented to me”, he said, though noting that Cyprus has obligations to implement certain measures under EU regulations.
“When these matters mature and such measures are decided for any area, it will be because residents want it and will benefit from it, resulting in reduced air pollution and better quality of life”, Vafeades said.
The minister added that his department would consider restricting heavy vehicle movement during peak hours, subject to consultations with stakeholders. He referenced recently passed legislation from November 2023, which requires the submission of regulations to parliament regarding fines.
“Our approach involves careful analysis of all data and cooperation with local communities. Any solutions will be implemented only when issues mature and affected residents support them”, Vafeades concluded.
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