Kilometre-long queues have become a daily ordeal for those passing through the Agios Dhometios crossing in Nicosia.
Politis visited the checkpoint on Friday morning, witnessing first-hand the long lines and frustration experienced by citizens on a daily basis. The worst congestion is recorded from the north towards the government-controlled areas, with waiting times during peak hours often exceeding three hours.
Residents caught in gridlock
Locals living near the crossing told Politis they are directly affected, struggling to move to and from their homes because of the traffic. “We are suffering,” was the phrase repeated by Greek Cypriots heading north, who also pointed to the recent arrests of five Greek Cypriots in the north as a factor discouraging visits.
“The waiting time has increased compared to the past,” one resident said.
Hasan, a Turkish Cypriot living and working in north Nicosia, explained: “Right now, we need far too much time to cross, so I think twice before taking my car.” He added that while the north has four checkpoints, the government-controlled area operates only two, giving the impression that there is little will to ease the process. “In my view, this reality drives our communities further apart.”
Different perceptions of the problem
Asked whether the delays are linked to recent tensions, such as the Republic of Cyprus’ prosecutions of property usurpers in the north and the arrests of five Greek Cypriots, opinions were divided. Some viewed it as a form of retaliation, while others dismissed the connection.
“Regardless of what is decided about the Cyprus problem, we are the ones who suffer and pay the price,” one citizen said.
Police officers at the crossing told Politis that checks on Turks carrying documents from the unrecognised entity, especially in cases of marriages with Republic of Cyprus citizens, take longer and contribute to delays. They added that they receive dozens of calls daily from frustrated citizens complaining about the situation.
More crossings, more demand
The number of Turkish Cypriots crossing south has also increased, mainly due to lower prices in the government-controlled areas. Many choose to buy basic goods such as meat, medicine and clothes, while others visit tavernas, leisure spots and airports under the Republic’s control.
Traffic now extends well beyond peak hours, stretching across most of the day, something that further exacerbates the problem. Combined with the large number of tourists using the checkpoints, queues are lengthening across the island.
In Nicosia, the problem is compounded by the fact there are only two crossings for motorists: Agios Dhometios, by far the busiest, and Astromeritis, which is used by far fewer travellers.