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Category: News

  • Right Lane of Limassol-Nicosia Highway Reopens After Car Overturns

    Right Lane of Limassol-Nicosia Highway Reopens After Car Overturns

    The right lane of the Limassol-Nicosia highway reopened to traffic at around 8am on Monday, following a temporary closure caused by a car overturning near the Kornos area.

    • The right lane of the Limassol-Nicosia highway reopened to traffic at around 8am on Monday, following a temporary closure caused by a car overturning near the Kornos area.
    • By 8am, the vehicle had been cleared, and traffic resumed its normal flow along this busy highway.

    Police reported that the vehicle overturned and came to a stop in the right lane at approximately 7am. Officers were quickly dispatched to the scene to provide assistance, manage traffic, and arrange for the car’s removal using a tow truck.

    By 8am, the vehicle had been cleared, and traffic resumed its normal flow along this busy highway.

    Authorities took the opportunity to remind drivers to exercise caution while using the road network. Police emphasised the importance of following the highway code and complying with traffic signals to prevent future accidents.

  • Paphos collision — Paphos collision: Six Children Injured in Paphos Traffic Collision Involving Two Families

    Paphos collision — Paphos collision: Six Children Injured in Paphos Traffic Collision Involving Two Families

    paphos collision — paphos collision — A traffic collision has resulted in injuries to six children in Paphos, highlighting the dangers of road travel. The incident occurred around 6:10 pm on Sunday, 2 November, on the Axylou-Nata road, when two vehicles collided under circumstances that are currently being investigated.

    A car, driven by a 42-year-old man with his 38-year-old wife and their three children—a girl aged 8, a boy aged 6, and another girl aged 3—was involved in the crash with another vehicle. This second car was driven by a 29-year-old man, accompanied by his 27-year-old wife and their three children: a 5-month-old girl, a 4-year-old girl, and a 2-year-old boy.

    All individuals involved were promptly taken to Paphos General Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, the 3-year-old daughter of the first family did not sustain any injuries. However, the 6-year-old boy suffered a fractured pelvis, and his 8-year-old sister experienced a collapsed lung.

    In the second vehicle, the 5-month-old baby suffered a head haematoma, while the 2-year-old boy sustained blunt trauma. The 4-year-old girl from the second family was treated for bruising to the head.

    As a precaution, the 3-year-old girl from the first family was kept at Paphos General Hospital, while the other children were transferred to Makarios Hospital in Nicosia for further treatment. The 42-year-old driver of the first car was discharged without injuries, but his wife, aged 38, required treatment for a fractured sternum and remained in hospital.

    The two adults from the second vehicle were kept for observation, but all individuals involved are now reported to be out of danger. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards on the roads and the importance of road safety.

  • Cypriot students — Cypriot Students Trapped in Tanzania Amid Political Unrest

    Cypriot students — Cypriot Students Trapped in Tanzania Amid Political Unrest

    cypriot students — cypriot students — The 14 students from Cyprus, who visited Tanzania on a voluntary work trip, are now trapped in the country due to severe political unrest. Originally scheduled to return today through Dubai, their plans were disrupted as flights were cancelled amidst escalating violence and civil disorder.

    Cypriot students: Current Situation in Tanzania

    In recent days, Tanzania has witnessed significant unrest, leading to a curfew being imposed. The military has reportedly intervened in the demonstrations, and there are alarming accounts of executions of citizens. This precarious environment has left the students and their parents in a state of distress.

    Concerns from Parents

    The parents of the students have reached out to the President of Cyprus, urging immediate action for the safe return of their children. They have also been actively engaging with officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stay informed about the measures being taken.

    Impact on Students

    As the unrest continues, the situation is beginning to take a toll on the students, aged 17 and 18. One student communicated to their family, expressing concern over their dwindling supplies, stating, “We have food for two more days.” Another parent reported that their child was feeling frightened and overwhelmed.

    Support from the Cypriot Government

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged the situation and is examining all options for the safe return of the 22 Cypriots currently in Tanzania, which includes the students, two teachers, and two chaperones from Greece. The spokesperson for the Ministry, Theodoros Gotsis, emphasised that coordinated efforts are being made between the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Nairobi and the Crisis Management Centre in Nicosia.

    Continuous Communication

    Gotsis assured that there is no immediate security threat to the group. The Ministry is maintaining contact with the parents and keeping them updated on the situation. Additionally, efforts are underway to collaborate with the EU delegation in Tanzania to facilitate a safe return.

    Emergency Contact Information

    In case of emergencies, Cypriot citizens in Tanzania can reach out to the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Kenya at +254 111051430. They can also send emails to hcnairobi@mfa.gov.cy or hcnairobiconsular@mfa.gov.cy. For further assistance, they can contact the Consular Affairs Directorate at +357 22 651113, or the Crisis Management Directorate at +357 22 801000 or +357 97 775998.

    Encouragement for Cypriot Citizens

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is encouraging Cypriot citizens abroad to register on the online platform, Connect2CY, to ensure their safety and receive timely updates on travel advisories and emergency situations.

    Future Steps

    As the situation unfolds, the parents and students maintain hope that the Cypriot government will take the necessary steps to ensure their safe return. The collective efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the cooperation with international bodies are crucial in navigating this challenging scenario.

  • Car Owners Face Rising Costs from Electric Scooter Collisions

    Car Owners Face Rising Costs from Electric Scooter Collisions

    Car owners in Cyprus are increasingly out of pocket after collisions with electric scooters and other two-wheeled vehicles, as legal gaps hinder police intervention. Social media platforms have become a repository for videos and posts from frustrated drivers who have experienced damage to their vehicles due to these incidents.

    Electric scooter: Frustration on the Roads

    Numerous clips shared on TikTok and Instagram depict parked cars that have been clipped or scratched by electric scooters, often leaving owners to bear the financial burden of repairs. One viral video showed a BMW with a dent, reportedly incurring a repair bill of around €600 after a scooter collided with it in Limassol. Another case involved a Nicosia vehicle owner facing damages of €450 from a similar incident. These accounts highlight a growing issue that is affecting motorists across the island.

    Police Clarify Their Limitations

    In an interview with the Sunday Mail, police confirmed their limited capacity to handle collisions involving electric scooters, which are officially termed personal mobility devices (PMDs). The police stated, “Where there are serious traffic offences, serious injuries, or significant material damage, the police proceed to investigate a road collision involving a PMD or a bicycle. Otherwise, we cannot intervene.” This limitation leaves many victims without recourse.

    Rising Incidents and Fines

    From 2023 to 2024, authorities issued a staggering 3,996 fines related to PMD offences. Among these, 1,592 fines were for usage in prohibited areas, and 363 for operating outside designated lanes. The police underscored the risks faced by PMD users, noting that they are particularly vulnerable on roads where speed limits exceed 30 km/h.

    Legislative Gaps Creating Vulnerability

    The current legal framework governing electric scooters is still pending in parliament, leaving victims of accidents unprotected and without options for compensation. Green Party MP Stavros Papadouris emphasised the urgent need for reform: “Depending on the area, supervision can fall under either the police or the municipality. If the situation is not fixed, there’s a risk that the legislation itself will collapse.”

    He pointed out the critical issue of a lack of registration and insurance for these vehicles. “These vehicles are not recorded anywhere and have no insurance coverage. We proposed a separate registry with identification plates and mandatory insurance so owners can be traced and costs covered,” he explained.

    The Human Cost of Legal Gaps

    Papadouris highlighted the severe consequences of the current legal shortcomings, citing a motorcyclist who spent three months in hospital after colliding with an uninsured e-scooter, losing his job as a result. “If the government wanted, it could step in voluntarily, recognising the legal gap. But there are no legislative tools for that,” he added.

    Calls for Stricter Regulations

    Disy MP Marinos Moushioutas stated that the House is considering stricter regulations to address these issues, noting, “They are not insured, so we cannot intervene when an accident happens. Because the necessary measures are not being taken by the police, local authorities, scooter importers, and rental companies, we proposed banning scooters as a pressure measure.” He indicated that similar measures have been successfully implemented in other European countries.

    Municipal Challenges

    Municipalities are also grappling with the enforcement of existing laws. Kyriakos Xydias, mayor of Amathus, expressed concerns about legislative delays. “The scooters are a matter of legislation that has been passed. They are allowed to circulate below a certain speed limit, but there is no insurance. We have made professional plans, properly and legally, but we are not ready yet,” he stated.

    Awareness and Enforcement Gaps

    Haris Christodoulou, an executive engineer at the transport ministry, acknowledged the enforcement gaps despite ongoing awareness campaigns. “We seek from all involved to take responsibility under the law and act within their powers. The absence of proper enforcement is the issue,” he said.

    Proposed Solutions for Accountability

    The police have suggested additional measures to improve accountability, such as retaining PMDs used in prohibited areas. “The bill should include provisions to ensure smooth implementation, including storage arrangements for retained PMDs,” they commented.

    Currently, the lack of insurance coverage remains a significant barrier for victims seeking compensation. Papadouris reiterated the necessity for a comprehensive system that includes registration and insurance to protect all road users. “For the system to work, there needs to be a complete micromobility network connecting all areas without gaps,” he argued.

    Urgent Need for Legislative Action

    The human and financial costs associated with scooter collisions are mounting, with repair bills ranging from €300 to €750 per incident. High-traffic areas, such as university districts and promenades, are witnessing frequent collisions, prompting many drivers to alter their routes and parking strategies to avoid scooters.

    As parliament continues to deliberate on e-scooter legislation, car owners remain uncertain about their responsibilities and liabilities. The situation underscores a broader issue of accountability in Cyprus’s burgeoning micromobility sector. With nearly 4,000 PMD-related fines issued in just two years and injuries already reported, the urgency for a coherent and enforceable law is evident.

  • No Evidence of Child Pornography Found; 30-Year-Old Turkish Cypriot Released

    No Evidence of Child Pornography Found; 30-Year-Old Turkish Cypriot Released

    The 30-year-old Turkish Cypriot, previously detained on suspicion of acquiring access to child pornography, has been released after investigators found no evidence on his mobile phone.

    • The 30-year-old Turkish Cypriot, previously detained on suspicion of acquiring access to child pornography, has been released after investigators found no evidence on his mobile phone.
    • The examination of the phone's contents revealed no incriminating evidence, leading to the decision to charge him in writing before his release at one o'clock on Sunday afternoon.
    • Officials have confirmed that the case file has been forwarded to the Law Office for further evaluation and instructions regarding the next steps.

    Following his appearance at the Nicosia District Court last Friday, a three-day detention order was issued. However, after an examination by the police, it was determined that there were no links between the suspect’s digital accounts and the alleged offences.

    According to the Police Press Office, the suspect voluntarily handed over his mobile device and provided the necessary codes, even allowing for face recognition access to facilitate the investigation.

    The examination of the phone’s contents revealed no incriminating evidence, leading to the decision to charge him in writing before his release at one o’clock on Sunday afternoon.

    Officials have confirmed that the case file has been forwarded to the Law Office for further evaluation and instructions regarding the next steps.

  • Lost at Sea: Man Rescued Off Limassol

    Lost at Sea: Man Rescued Off Limassol

    lost at — A man was rescued from the sea off Limassol after the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre launched an emergency search and rescue plan named Nearchos.

    • lost at — A man was rescued from the sea off Limassol after the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre launched an emergency search and rescue plan named Nearchos.

    The operation was initiated at 2.20 pm in the Ayios Georgios Alaminou area, involving multiple agencies. Teams from the port and naval police, alongside the navy’s underwater disasters unit, joined forces with a helicopter to locate the individual.

    By 3.30 pm, the efforts bore fruit as the person was identified and successfully pulled from the water by a crew aboard a port police boat. Following the rescue, he was handed over to the ambulance service for medical examinations, ensuring he received the necessary care after his ordeal.

  • Cypriots tanzania: Efforts Underway to Bring Home Cypriots Stranded in Tanzania

    Cypriots tanzania: Efforts Underway to Bring Home Cypriots Stranded in Tanzania

    cypriots tanzania — cypriots tanzania — Efforts are ongoing to bring home 22 Cypriots trapped in Tanzania, as confirmed by ministry spokesman Theodoros Gotsis on Sunday. Among them are 14 teenage students from a private school in Nicosia, who were in the country for a volunteer programme. They are currently accompanied by four adults.

    Gotsis assured that the group is safe, being located far from any areas of unrest. The foreign ministry has been in regular contact with the parents of the students to provide updates on their situation.

    To facilitate the safe return of those stranded in Tanzania, the Cypriot authorities are coordinating with the UNHCR in Nairobi. They are also reaching out to the EU delegation in Tanzania to assist in the repatriation process.

    In light of the ongoing unrest in the region, Gotsis has urged any other Cypriots currently in Tanzania to make contact with the authorities. The foreign ministry issued a travel advisory last Friday, warning Cypriots to exercise caution if travelling to Tanzania due to the volatile situation.

    Citizens in Tanzania have been advised to reach out for assistance through the contact numbers provided in the advisory. The high commission in Kenya can be reached at +254 111051430, while the ministry in Cyprus can be contacted at +357 22 651113, +357 22 801000, or +357 97 775998. Cypriots are also encouraged to register with the online platform Connect2CY to ensure they stay connected while abroad.

  • Cyprus and Greece: Pillars of Stability in the Eastern Mediterranean

    Cyprus and Greece: Pillars of Stability in the Eastern Mediterranean

    Cyprus and Greece are described as pillars of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during his recent visit to Nicosia. Speaking at a memorial service for former President Glafcos Clerides, Mitsotakis highlighted the importance of responsibility and realism in patriotism while reflecting on Clerides’ significant contributions to the Cyprus problem.

    Cyprus and: A Call for Responsible Patriotism

    During the service, which was led by Archbishop Georgios, Mitsotakis emphasised the need for a patriotism grounded in responsibility, realism, and results. This sentiment echoes a call for a collective approach to the challenges faced by both nations, especially concerning the ongoing issues surrounding Cyprus.

    Reflecting on Clerides’ Legacy

    Clerides, the founder of the Democratic Rally (Disy), played a crucial role in addressing the Cyprus conflict. Mitsotakis noted that the former president’s experiences over the decades serve as a vital lesson: stagnation can lead to regression. He warned that the false bravado associated with contemporary pseudo-patriotism often conceals future failures.

    Commitment to Cooperation

    Reaffirming the solidarity between Athens and Nicosia, Mitsotakis pointed out the recent resumption of informal discussions regarding the Cyprus issue after a prolonged period of stagnation. He stressed that the Greek government is firmly aligned with the government of Cyprus, advocating for the existing framework of UN resolutions that promote political equality, sovereignty, and citizenship.

    Rejecting the Two-State Solution

    In his speech, Mitsotakis firmly rejected any arguments in favour of a two-state solution, describing such proposals as unacceptable. He reiterated that constructive dialogue and active diplomacy are essential for achieving positive outcomes in the region.

    Economic Growth and Energy Initiatives

    Mitsotakis further highlighted that both Cyprus and Greece are not only stabilising forces but also rapidly developing economies that are outpacing the European average. He noted their efforts in reducing national debt and contributing to the formation of a new energy landscape in the Eastern Mediterranean through significant electrical interconnection projects.

    Honouring Distinguished Guests

    The memorial service was attended by several notable figures, including Disy leader Annita Demetriou, former President Nicos Anastasiades, and former Disy leader Averoff Neophytou. President Nikos Christodoulides was represented by Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, underscoring the importance of unity among political leaders in addressing the challenges facing Cyprus.

    The Way Forward

    Mitsotakis’ remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing commitment required from both nations to navigate the complexities of the Cyprus situation and uphold their roles as beacons of stability in the region. As discussions progress, the emphasis on collaboration and active diplomacy will be critical in shaping a peaceful and prosperous future for Cyprus and Greece.

  • Cloud Seeding Considered as Cyprus Faces Water Crisis

    Cloud Seeding Considered as Cyprus Faces Water Crisis

    Cloud seeding is being examined as a potential solution to alleviate water scarcity in Cyprus, which is bracing for a fourth consecutive winter of drought. The agriculture ministry has acknowledged the dire situation, with the island’s dams currently holding only 11 per cent of their capacity, raising urgent concerns about the future of water supply.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Urgent Call for Action

    Kleanthis Nicolaides, the former head of the meteorology department, has been vocal in advocating for cloud seeding as an alternative to manage the escalating water crisis. He has highlighted the alarming lack of rainfall this October, which has left the dams critically low and prompted discussions about the potential of weather modification technologies.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Assessing the Current Drought Situation

    The gravity of the drought was underscored by Nicolaides, who suggested that official figures may misrepresent the true condition of the reservoirs, stating that sediment accumulation in the dams is likely leading to inaccurate capacity measurements. “The situation is worse than what the official data shows,” he remarked, reinforcing the need for immediate action.

    Exploring Cloud Seeding

    Cloud seeding involves dispersing substances into the atmosphere that can act as cloud condensation or ice nuclei. Common agents include silver iodide and potassium iodide, with hygroscopic materials like table salt gaining attention for their moisture-attracting properties. While the technology has shown promise, its effectiveness remains a topic of debate.

    Nicolaides acknowledged that while cloud seeding is not a silver bullet, it warrants exploration given the severe circumstances. “In these desperate times, the government should explore the option,” he stated. He also described the operational aspects of cloud seeding, which may require aircraft equipped with specialized equipment to disperse the substances effectively.

    Potential Costs and Agricultural Impact

    The agricultural sector is already feeling the pressure, with the Water Development Department advising farmers to refrain from planting seasonal crops. This has resulted in reduced availability of staple items like lettuce and potatoes, leading to anticipated price increases. “Lack of water means agricultural products will go up in price,” Nicolaides warned, highlighting the broader economic implications of water scarcity.

    Historical Context of Cloud Seeding in Cyprus

    Reflecting on past efforts, Nicolaides recalled that Cyprus had previously experimented with cloud seeding during a drought in the early 1970s. However, the results of those initiatives were never fully assessed due to the outbreak of war in 1974. “This was done over a period of a couple of years, but the results were never properly evaluated,” he noted.

    Government Considerations

    The government has been exploring the feasibility of cloud seeding, with the meteorology department confirming that it is closely monitoring international developments in weather modification technologies. Philippos Tymvios, the current director of the meteorology department, stated that proposals for cloud seeding have been submitted by at least two private companies. “All proposals are being reviewed carefully, with the guidance of independent scientific experts,” he added.

    While there is no operational cloud seeding programme currently in place, Tymvios indicated that the government is considering all scientifically credible options to address the long-term water scarcity affecting Cyprus. “Any future initiative would be based on robust scientific evidence and full alignment with public interest safeguards,” he assured.

    Challenges and Future Directions

    Despite the interest in cloud seeding, there are significant challenges to its implementation. A study by the United States National Academy of Sciences has cast doubt on the effectiveness of cloud seeding, failing to find statistically significant evidence to support its impact on precipitation. Similarly, a 2010 study from Tel Aviv University indicated that traditional cloud seeding materials may have little effect on rainfall amounts.

    As the debate continues, Nicolaides emphasised the need for a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to evaluate potential methods for enhancing rainfall. He noted that with the dams nearly empty, Cyprus increasingly relies on desalination and boreholes for its water supply, which further complicates the issue. “Desalination is no fix-all,” he cautioned, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

    Looking Ahead

    With Cyprus facing a critical juncture in its water management strategy, the exploration of cloud seeding and other innovative solutions will be essential in tackling the ongoing drought. As the government weighs its options, the experiences of other countries that have successfully implemented weather modification technologies may provide valuable insights. The path forward will require careful consideration, transparency, and collaboration with scientific experts to ensure any initiatives align with the public’s best interests.

  • Economic Sentiment in Cyprus Sees Positive Shift

    Economic Sentiment in Cyprus Sees Positive Shift

    Economic sentiment in Cyprus recovered in October, with the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI-CypERC) rising by 2.0 points. This increase follows a downturn in September, when the indicator fell to 102.1 from 103.7 in August.

    Photo: financialmirror.com

    • Similarly, the Construction Confidence Indicator also rose, buoyed by better order book levels and a positive shift in employment expectations among firms in this sector.
    • The Industry Confidence Indicator experienced a small decrease, primarily due to less favourable assessments regarding current order books and lowered production expectations.
    • Furthermore, expectations regarding the overall economic conditions in Cyprus have also deteriorated among consumers, reflecting a more cautious outlook.
    • The report from the University of Cyprus highlights these mixed signals in economic sentiment, indicating a complex landscape as the nation navigates its recovery.

    Economic sentiment: Business Confidence on the Rise

    The Economics Research Centre of the University of Cyprus attributes the uptick in overall economic sentiment to a rebound in business confidence, particularly within the services and construction sectors. These areas had previously experienced significant declines over the last two months.

    Improvements in Services and Construction

    In October, the Services Confidence Indicator saw a notable increase, reversing the downward trend of the last two months. This improvement was driven by enhanced assessments of the recent business situation and more optimistic views on past and expected turnover.

    Similarly, the Construction Confidence Indicator also rose, buoyed by better order book levels and a positive shift in employment expectations among firms in this sector.

    Retail Trade and Industry Indicators Shift

    <pConversely, the Retail Trade Confidence Indicator recorded a decline. This drop was attributed to deteriorating views on recent sales and stock levels, alongside further downward revisions in sales expectations.

    The Industry Confidence Indicator experienced a small decrease, primarily due to less favourable assessments regarding current order books and lowered production expectations.

    Consumer Sentiment Takes a Hit

    While business confidence has improved, the Consumer Confidence Indicator saw a decline in October, reversing the positive trend of the previous two months. Consumers reported a worsening assessment of their financial situations and a weaker intent to make major purchases.

    Furthermore, expectations regarding the overall economic conditions in Cyprus have also deteriorated among consumers, reflecting a more cautious outlook.

    Economic Uncertainty Eases

    <pOn a more positive note, the Economic Uncertainty Indicator decreased to 11.7 points in October, down from 15.8 in September. This decline suggests a reduction in business uncertainty across most sectors, with the exception of industry, where uncertainty rose slightly. Although consumer uncertainty did increase, it remains relatively low across all income groups.

    The report from the University of Cyprus highlights these mixed signals in economic sentiment, indicating a complex landscape as the nation navigates its recovery.