Repair, maintenance and reinforcement works on the enclosed stormwater culvert beneath Digenis Akritas Avenue in Nicosia will begin on 5 October, the Nicosia District Local Government Organisation (EOA) has announced.
The project, which will cost €2.26 million plus VAT, covers the section of the avenue between Kallipoleos and Larnacos avenues.
Critical infrastructure upgrade
The reinforced concrete culvert, built around 50 years ago, channels the Kotsirka river and stormwater beneath one of Nicosia’s busiest thoroughfares.
According to the EOA, decades of use have led to deterioration and corrosion caused by ageing materials, constant vibrations, heavy traffic loads and continuous exposure to water.
The damage is reported to be most severe at major road junctions and areas frequently used by heavy vehicles.
Traffic restrictions for 28 weeks
Due to the nature of the works, which will take place beneath the avenue, traffic management measures will be introduced throughout the project.
Sections of the roadway directly above the work area will be closed for safety reasons.
The project will be carried out in phases, with the first covering the stretch between Protagorou Street and Alkamenous Street.
Initially, one lane heading towards Larnacos Avenue will be closed. At a later stage, both lanes will be closed.
The first phase is expected to be completed by 4 December 2026.
Overall, all phases of the project are expected to take 28 weeks.
State funding covers most of cost
Works will include opening sections of the culvert roof for access and ventilation, cleaning the structure, temporary roof support, reinforcement of walls and roof sections with new steel reinforcement and sprayed concrete, repairs to joints and the eventual restoration of the road surface.
Two-thirds of the project cost will be funded by the state, with the remainder covered by the EOA through stormwater drainage fees paid by property owners.
The organisation said annual revenue from these fees, amounting to approximately €2 million, is used to address critical flood-prevention and drainage issues across Nicosia district.
The EOA apologised for any inconvenience caused and called for the understanding of residents, businesses and motorists during the course of the works.
