The Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos, has put forward a proposal for the opening of a new crossing point in Kaïmakli, citing increasing congestion at the Agios Dometios checkpoint.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, Mr Prountzos clarified that while the opening of a crossing at Mia Milia remains the most feasible solution from a technical perspective, alternative options are being examined due to reported obstacles and difficulties.
Proposal Submitted To Negotiator
Mr Prountzos said he submitted the proposal to the Greek Cypriot negotiator, Menelaos Menelaou. The suggested alternative concerns the opening of a vehicle crossing at Agiou Ilarionos in Kaïmakli.
He noted that he has discussed the matter over the past year with the Turkish Cypriot mayor of occupied Nicosia, Mehmet Harmanci.
According to Mr Prountzos, it is feasible to open the Kaïmakli crossing and carry out the necessary works. He reiterated that the objective of opening Mia Milia, together with the Athienou Pyroi Aglantzia crossing, remains unchanged, but that alternative routes are being placed on the table for discussion.
Congestion At Agios Dometios Checkpoint
The Mayor stated that the Agios Dometios crossing is currently under the greatest pressure, with significant congestion and a series of problems affecting local residents.
He explained that opening a crossing in Kaïmakli would contribute to easing traffic at Agios Dometios.
At present, three of the seven inspection booths at Agios Dometios are operational, and these are not always staffed, resulting in extensive delays.
Mr Prountzos added that the situation is further aggravated by stricter vehicle checks, implemented as part of compliance measures for full accession to the Schengen Treaty.
Source: CNA