Reducing traffic congestion will be one of the main priorities of Cyprus’ new Minister of Transport, Communications and Works, Evanthia Tsolaki. Speaking to CNA, she said the ministry would assess existing proposals and proceed with measures considered feasible, including a possible expansion of the Park & Ride service.
Tsolaki thanked President Nikos Christodoulides for entrusting her with what she described as an important portfolio facing significant challenges.
“Traffic congestion is certainly one of the priorities because it affects the daily lives of citizens and visitors,” she said, adding that solutions would have to be developed in cooperation with other responsible authorities.
Proposals under review
Tsolaki said she had already begun consultations with the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and departmental directors and was receiving detailed briefings.
“We will put all the proposals on the table, determine which can be implemented and return with further announcements,” she said.
The minister noted that several major infrastructure projects were already under way. She also referred to a recent meeting between her predecessor, Alexis Vafeades, and Limassol Municipality, during which a comprehensive programme of projects and interventions was drawn up to address the city’s traffic problems.
The plan includes the northern bypass, the completion and upgrading of the main road network, immediate interventions and longer-term strategic infrastructure projects.
Tsolaki said she would review the plans and continue the work undertaken by Vafeades, whom she thanked for his contribution during his term.
Asked whether Cyprus could adopt measures used in other European countries, she said all available options would be examined.
Park & Ride expansion
The possible expansion of Park & Ride is among the proposals to be studied, Tsolaki confirmed, saying the service could help reduce road traffic and increase parking availability.
She added that meetings would be held with public transport operators to explore ways of increasing the number of bus routes and services.
“We will work for the common good,” she said. “Consultation will precede every decision we take.”
Roads, airports and ports
Beyond traffic congestion, Tsolaki said improving the road network would also be a priority, both to ease traffic and facilitate travel more broadly.
She was also due to meet the Road Transport Department to discuss current issues, including the international ADR agreement concerning the transport of dangerous goods by road.
The minister said she was awaiting further briefings on outstanding matters involving the ministry’s other areas of responsibility, including airports and ports, before setting her full list of priorities.
Source: CNA.
