Works financed by the European Union at the Agios Dhometios/Metehan crossing point have been completed, increasing capacity and modifying traffic circulation at the island’s busiest crossing. The intervention adds one lane in each direction and introduces a new pedestrian footpath.
The project is intended to address sustained traffic pressure at the crossing and improve conditions for daily users and neighbouring areas.
Scope of the infrastructure upgrade
The crossing’s capacity has been expanded from two to three traffic lanes in each direction. In addition, a new pedestrian footpath has been constructed.
According to the information provided, these improvements are expected to facilitate more efficient crossings over the Green Line, reduce congestion and enhance safety for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Objectives and policy framework
The expansion seeks to ensure smoother traffic circulation for the thousands of people who cross the Green Line in Nicosia each day, as well as to provide relief to surrounding neighbourhoods that have long experienced heavy traffic.
The project is presented as part of the European Commission’s ongoing support to improve daily life for Cypriots and to encourage crossings over the Green Line, in the context of efforts towards a fair and lasting settlement of the Cyprus issue for the benefit of all Cypriots and the island as a whole.
Funding and implementation arrangements
The project was funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in Cyprus. It was designed to respond to increasing demand at the crossing by expanding capacity and improving traffic management.
Implementation took place in close cooperation with the bicommunal Technical Committee on Crossings. Construction works were carried out by two contractors, one Greek Cypriot and one Turkish Cypriot, working in coordination to deliver the project.
Institutional commitment
The European Union states that it remains committed to supporting confidence-building measures and practical projects that promote contact, cooperation and mutual understanding between the two communities, in line with its long-standing objectives in Cyprus and its support for a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the Cyprus issue.