MVP

Tag: Cyprus

  • Traffic camera — Traffic Camera Fines Dropping from €300 to €85

    Traffic camera — Traffic Camera Fines Dropping from €300 to €85

    The government is set to reduce traffic fines for stopping on pedestrian crossings from €300 to €85 following parliamentary approval of legislation proposed by Nicosia MP Marinos Mousiouttas.

    • The government is set to reduce traffic fines for stopping on pedestrian crossings from €300 to €85 following parliamentary approval of legislation proposed by Nicosia MP Marinos Mousiouttas.

    On 26 May 2025, the Electromechanical Services Department issued instructions to its contractor to implement the necessary modifications to the traffic camera system. This move came after securing approvals from TEAA and KEAA contract management bodies, alongside police confirmation of available funding.

    According to the Department Director, all necessary resources for the implementation of the new penalty structure have been secured. Payments to the contractor will be made in two phases: the first upon completion of modifications at the initial crossing and the second upon full project completion.

    Traffic camera: Significant Reduction for Stopping Violations

    The new €85 penalty will replace the previous €300 fine specifically for stopping violations at pedestrian crossings. This adjustment represents a substantial decrease in financial penalties for drivers, aiming to promote safer behaviour around pedestrian areas.

    Timeline for Implementation

    A pilot implementation is scheduled to commence in late November 2025, with police and the Electromechanical Services Department set to select the first modified intersection within that month. Authorities expect full deployment across all intersections equipped with traffic cameras and pedestrian crossings by the end of the first quarter of 2026.

    Testing and Evaluation Phase

    The pilot programme will allow for technical testing and necessary adjustments to the system without impacting the broader camera network. This phase will enable authorities to evaluate the system’s functionality and ensure that violations are accurately recorded under the new penalty framework.

    During the pilot phase, technical testing will focus on system performance and validation of the violation recording process. This systematic approach will facilitate adjustments as needed before full-scale deployment across Cyprus’s traffic camera network.

    Funding Secured for Changes

    Authorities have confirmed that the funding arrangements are in place to support the technical modifications required for implementing the new penalty structure. This ensures that all necessary changes can proceed smoothly and efficiently.

    Looking Ahead

    With the reduced penalty structure aimed at improving compliance and safety, the full implementation across all relevant intersections is projected to provide comprehensive coverage of the new system by March 2026. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing traffic safety while easing the financial burden on drivers.

  • Earthquake — Magnitude 4 Earthquake Recorded Near Limassol

    Earthquake — Magnitude 4 Earthquake Recorded Near Limassol

    An earthquake with a magnitude of 4 has been recorded north of Limassol, according to the European Seismology Centre. The seismic event occurred on Sunday morning, with its epicentre located 23 kilometres north-east of the city.

    • As the region settles back to normal, authorities remind the public to remain aware of potential aftershocks, even if no immediate effects were observed from this quake.

    The earthquake struck at a depth of 13.1 kilometres, a factor that often influences the level of shaking experienced at the surface. Despite the magnitude, there have been no reports of the tremor being felt by residents in the surrounding areas.

    Seismic activity in Cyprus is not uncommon, but this particular event has raised interest due to its proximity to urban areas. The European Seismology Centre continues to monitor the situation, providing updates as necessary.

    As the region settles back to normal, authorities remind the public to remain aware of potential aftershocks, even if no immediate effects were observed from this quake.

  • Paphos Police Arrest Man for Drug Possession During Vehicle Stop

    Paphos Police Arrest Man for Drug Possession During Vehicle Stop

    A man was arrested in Paphos for drug possession following a vehicle stop by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) last night.

    • A man was arrested in Paphos for drug possession following a vehicle stop by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) last night.
    • The immediate finding led to the arrest of the young man on felony charges. However, the operation did not conclude there; a more thorough search revealed additional illegal substances.
    • Authorities found approximately 34 grams of cannabis, 5 grams of cocaine, and seven stamps soaked in a liquid suspected to be LSD on the same individual.
    • The Paphos branch of YKAN is continuing its investigation into the matter, aiming to uncover further details regarding the source and distribution of the drugs.

    The incident unfolded when YKAN officers conducted a routine check on a vehicle occupied by three individuals. During this search, a precision scale, bearing traces of cannabis, was discovered in the possession of a 21-year-old passenger.

    The immediate finding led to the arrest of the young man on felony charges. However, the operation did not conclude there; a more thorough search revealed additional illegal substances.

    Authorities found approximately 34 grams of cannabis, 5 grams of cocaine, and seven stamps soaked in a liquid suspected to be LSD on the same individual.

    The Paphos branch of YKAN is continuing its investigation into the matter, aiming to uncover further details regarding the source and distribution of the drugs.

  • Excavations for Missing Persons Yield No Results Yet

    Excavations for Missing Persons Yield No Results Yet

    Excavations are currently underway at eight sites by the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP), yet no remains of missing persons have been discovered so far. The operations, which involve seven teams in the north and one in the south, are focused on uncovering the fates of individuals who went missing during the intercommunal violence and the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

    Missing persons: Sites of Interest Across Cyprus

    The ongoing excavations include notable locations such as Assia, where two CMP teams are specifically excavating wells. These efforts are marked by the archaeological significance of the site, particularly concerning Greek Cypriot missing persons. In the Karpas peninsula, a team is probing the village lake at Galatia, where two mass graves were previously identified in 2006 and 2015. These discoveries led to the identification of 18 individuals, and sources suggest that a third mass grave, potentially containing up to three people, may lie within the lake.

    Challenges in Finding Remains

    Despite the extensive efforts, including broadening search areas, the CMP teams have yet to find any remains. In Exo Metochi, the team is investigating a field where human remains were reportedly spotted in 1974. Although investigators were directed to a specific point, thirty days into their search yielded no results. Similarly, in Kioneli, where remains of missing Greek soldiers have been previously found, current excavations have also turned up empty.

    Additional Excavation Efforts

    Two other excavation sites in the north include Dikomo and Kumurcu. In Dikomo, the focus is on a riverbed based on information regarding Greek Cypriot soldiers, while work in Kumurcu involves a kiln site. Unfortunately, both sites have yet to produce any findings, and work continues.

    Investigations in the South

    The eighth excavation site is located in Engomi, Nicosia, where teams are exploring seven wells. Reports indicate that Turkish Cypriots missing since the intercommunal violence of 1963-1964 may be buried there. However, like the other sites, no remains have surfaced.

    The Broader Context of the Search

    Currently, there are a total of 2,002 missing persons, with 1,051 identified to date. Notably, 216 individuals were identified after not being included on the CMP’s official list. The missing persons include 492 Turkish Cypriots and 1,510 Greek Cypriots, primarily from the tumultuous periods of 1963-1964 and the 1974 invasion.

  • Cyprus Invests €5.6 Million to Enhance Kato Pyrgos Fishing Shelter

    A significant investment of €5.6 million aims to resolve long-standing issues at Kato Pyrgos fishing shelter. The area has faced chronic problems due to sand and dead seaweed accumulation, primarily Posidonia, which has led to operational difficulties requiring costly and frequent cleaning and deepening efforts.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Kato pyrgos: Addressing Operational Challenges

    President Nikos Christodoulides announced the project during his recent tour of the Tillyria region, emphasising the importance of supporting sea professionals for local development. The Public Works Department has reported that each cleaning intervention costs between €400,000 and €500,000 and occurs approximately every 1.5 to 2 years, imposing a significant financial burden on the state budget.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    A Permanent Solution in Sight

    The need for a permanent, technically viable, and environmentally compatible solution has been underscored by these recurring expenses. The new improvement project has undergone detailed planning, supported by an approved Environmental Impact Assessment Study. Notably, the European Union is expected to co-finance the initiative through its Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Programme for 2021-2027.

    Details of the Proposed Improvements

    The proposed solution is designed to be both technically and environmentally optimal. Key components include:

    • Construction of new windward and leeward breakwaters.
    • Repositioning the entrance towards deeper waters.
    • Demolition of existing structures with plans for reusing rock blocks where feasible.
    • Creation of access corridors for cleaning vehicles, enabling future maintenance without dredging.
    • Installation of pipes and channels for harbour basin water renewal.
    • Creation of a fresh seawater system through a fountain.

    This selection process was guided by technical and environmental criteria aimed at ensuring calm within the harbour basin, effectively addressing the silting issue, and reducing long-term maintenance costs while protecting the sensitive marine environment.

    Long-Term Project Viability

    The construction of this project is expected to have a lifespan of 50 years, with functional adequacy projected for 25 years. Plans for re-examination and potential upgrades will be implemented as future needs arise. Additionally, based on a request from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, the project design will include provisions to double the number of berths from 16 to 30, accommodating both professional fishermen and vessels from the Naval and Port Police.

    Environmental Considerations at the Forefront

    Environmental protection is a priority, with the ecological study encompassing an inventory of local biodiversity, shoreline evolution simulations, and 3D physical modelling. The project aims to avoid extensive deepening that could affect the seabed, ensuring minimal disruption to the local ecosystem.

    President Christodoulides indicated that the Agriculture Ministry, in collaboration with the Public Works Department and the National Technical University of Athens, is already studying optimal solutions, with the related study expected to complete by 2025. Following this, project tendering will commence, with completion and operational functionality anticipated around 2026.

    Local Economic and Social Implications

    Kato Pyrgos fishing shelter plays a vital role in the local economy and the social fabric of a geographically isolated area. The planned upgrades are expected to enhance vessel safety, ensure the sustainability of fishing professions, and promote tourism and environmental development in the region.

    The state’s commitment to this significant investment signals that the future of Kato Pyrgos will rely not on temporary fixes but on substantial, long-term interventions that respect and protect the natural environment.

  • Tertiary education — Cyprus Achieves Third Highest Tertiary Education Completion Rate in EU at 60.1%

    Tertiary education — Cyprus Achieves Third Highest Tertiary Education Completion Rate in EU at 60.1%

    In 2024, Cyprus ranked third in the EU regarding tertiary education completion rates, achieving 60.1%. This impressive figure places the nation behind only Ireland, which leads at 65.2%, and Luxembourg at 63.8%, according to data from Eurostat.

    The tertiary education completion rate reflects the percentage of individuals aged 25 to 34 who have successfully obtained a higher education qualification. This metric serves as a key indicator of progress towards the fourth Sustainable Development Goal, which emphasises the importance of quality education for all.

    The EU as a whole has also shown commendable progress, with the tertiary education completion rate rising to 44.1% in 2024. This marks a notable increase from 39.6% in 2019, suggesting that the EU is on course to meet its 2030 target of achieving at least 45%.

    However, the statistics reveal disparities among member states. Romania, Italy, and Hungary reported the lowest completion rates, standing at 23.2%, 31.6%, and 32.3% respectively. Such figures highlight the varying levels of educational achievement across the continent.

    Gender differences in educational attainment also present a significant concern. Across the EU, women recorded a completion rate of 49.8%, while men lagged behind at 38.6%. This trend indicates that young women are outpacing their male counterparts in obtaining tertiary qualifications.

    Some countries exhibit a pronounced gender gap. Slovenia, for example, shows a staggering difference of over 20 percentage points, with women achieving a completion rate of 55.7% compared to just 32% for men. Similar gaps are evident in Latvia, Estonia, and Croatia, where young women consistently exceed young men in educational attainment.

    As Cyprus continues to excel in educational achievements, the importance of access to quality education remains paramount. The focus now shifts to maintaining these high standards and addressing the existing inequalities, particularly in gender representation within higher education.

  • Oroklini Beach Cleaned Up After Engine Oil Spill

    Oroklini Beach Cleaned Up After Engine Oil Spill

    Oroklini beach has been cleaned up following an engine oil spill that contaminated the shoreline, as confirmed by local authorities. The incident was reported late Thursday evening, prompting a swift response from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research.

    The maritime service immediately deployed floating barriers and absorbent materials to tackle the spill, which was identified as bilge water containing a mixture of engine oil and diesel fuel. Marina Argyrou, director of the Department of Fisheries, stated that officials were alerted to the pollution incident at Larnaca port late at night.

    “At first light, maritime service officials arrived at Larnaca port and, using floating barriers and absorbents, managed to clean the pollution,” Argyrou explained. She clarified that the contamination originated within Larnaca port, where the Cyprus Ports Authority oversees management and pollution investigations.

    Some of the oil residue was reported to have washed onto Oroklini beach. In response, the Oroklini Municipal District of Larnaca Municipality was notified to initiate cleanup operations. Neofytos Fakontis, the deputy mayor of Oroklini, confirmed that small quantities of engine oil had affected the community coastline.

    Fakontis described the situation as manageable, noting that some beachgoers continued to swim while cleanup efforts were underway. “The Department of Fisheries was notified as the competent authority and took charge of the matter,” he stated. He further highlighted that much of the oil had evaporated, and it was anticipated that the remaining small quantity would also dissipate soon.

    As the cleanup operation progressed, the community remained hopeful for a quick resolution. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that Oroklini beach remains a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

  • Cabinet Gathers in Troodos to Prepare for Cyprus’ EU Presidency

    Cabinet Gathers in Troodos to Prepare for Cyprus’ EU Presidency

    eu presidency — The Cabinet will convene in Troodos this Saturday to discuss preparations for Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council presidency set for the first half of 2026.

    • eu presidency — The Cabinet will convene in Troodos this Saturday to discuss preparations for Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council presidency set for the first half of 2026.

    The government announced the meeting on Friday, indicating that it will take place at the presidential residence. Government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis conveyed that Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna will be presenting the government’s priorities for the presidency.

    In anticipation of the meeting, Raouna has already engaged in discussions with various ministries to ensure all areas of responsibility are briefed. Letymbiotis highlighted the importance of these preparations, stating, “There will be a comprehensive discussion and coordination in view of assuming the EU Council presidency.”

    In addition to outlining strategic priorities, Saturday’s gathering will also address administrative matters and other pending issues that require attention. The outcome of this meeting is expected to set the groundwork for Cyprus’ role in the EU during its presidency.

  • Nicosia Advances Sopaz Redevelopment and State Fair Grounds Transformation

    Nicosia Advances Sopaz Redevelopment and State Fair Grounds Transformation

    Nicosia’s Ambitious Plans for Urban Renewal

    Nicosia is pressing ahead with the Sopaz redevelopment and the future of the old state fair grounds, two projects seen as interconnected developments poised to reshape the capital.

    • Nicosia is pressing ahead with the Sopaz redevelopment and the future of the old state fair grounds, two projects seen as interconnected developments poised to reshape the capital.

    Community Support for Green Spaces

    According to a report from Philenews, the municipality is treating these projects as complementary to each other. Mayor Charalambos Prountzos highlighted a municipal survey indicating that 90 per cent of local residents favour transforming the state fair grounds into a metropolitan park. This proposed park would cover an impressive 250,000 square metres, addressing a long-standing shortage of green space in Engomi, which has increasingly become dominated by housing and concrete.

    Plans Moving Forward

    The government, alongside local community and parliamentary support, appears to be shifting towards the park concept. Relevant studies for the park are anticipated within the next two to three months. If approved, it would stand as the largest park in Cyprus, while only around 10 per cent of the area would remain dedicated to cultural, sports, educational, and exhibition uses.

    Transitioning the State Fair Grounds

    While the state fair moved to Makedonitissa in the early 1970s, the old grounds have hosted various events, from exhibitions to concerts. The new plans mark a significant departure from a cabinet decision made in September 2022, which aimed to establish a “research and tech zone” featuring offices, a hotel, and a conference centre. Local opposition has also led to the shelving of a proposed park-and-ride station near the site.

    Strategic Steps for Sopaz Redevelopment

    Simultaneously, progress at Sopaz is gaining momentum. The municipality has engaged an international consultancy to conduct a viability study, scheduled for completion in 2025. Additionally, there are plans to merge at least four state-owned plots with existing land, expanding the redevelopment area to over 300,000 square metres. This project envisions an exhibition and conference centre, along with facilities for sports, culture, housing, and green spaces.

    Improving Accessibility

    Accessibility to Sopaz is being enhanced with the ongoing reconstruction of Famagusta Avenue, which will directly connect the site to the highway via the University of Cyprus. This infrastructure improvement aims to facilitate easier access from both the city centre and surrounding areas.

    Public Sentiment and Future Engagement

    The interconnection of the state fair grounds and Sopaz redevelopment has seemingly unlocked their progress. The municipality asserts that the state fair can function as a green lung for Nicosia while temporarily accommodating a limited number of pavilions until all exhibition activities transition to Sopaz. Public sentiment is strongly in favour of the Metropolitan Park, with residents expressing eagerness for its creation on social media, especially as Nicosia ranks low among European capitals for green space.

    Involving the Community in Decision-Making

    Local authorities are committed to holding public consultations and presentations, ensuring community involvement in shaping the project. The government is expected to appoint a representative to a tripartite committee alongside the municipality and council to oversee the final planning and decision-making process.

    Presidential Support for Urban Development

    President Nikos Christodoulides has indicated his backing for these initiatives, linking them to a broader plan of over 80 projects worth more than €1 billion for Nicosia and its suburbs. In June, he described this programme as a “coherent and progressive plan” aimed at tackling urban challenges while enhancing the quality of life for residents.

  • President Affirms No Disagreements with Greece on Great Sea Interconnector

    President Affirms No Disagreements with Greece on Great Sea Interconnector

    great sea — President Nikos Christodoulides has confirmed that there are no disagreements with the Greek government regarding the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project, a vital initiative aimed at connecting the energy grids of Cyprus, Greece, and Israel.

    His remarks come after Greek Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis urged the Cypriot government to clarify its stance on the GSI during a press conference. Highlighting the project’s significance, Hatzidakis noted that Cyprus stands to gain substantially from the interconnector, which would alleviate the island’s current energy isolation.

    Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the project, Hatzidakis pointed out a crucial financial concern, stating that the costs of the GSI cannot rely solely on Greek taxpayers. He stressed the need for shared funding, with a particular reference to a request made by Greece’s independent transmission system operator, Admie, for the Cypriot government to contribute €25 million towards financing the project. This request has faced resistance from Cypriot Finance Minister Makis Keravnos, who has yet to give his consent.

    Admie holds a 51 per cent stake in the GSI, making it the majority stakeholder and responsible for its execution. President Christodoulides reiterated the strategic importance of the project for Cyprus and expressed confidence in Admie’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities. He emphasised that the sustainability of the GSI hinges on Admie meeting its obligations.

    In a related development, the President revealed that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has initiated an investigation into potential criminal offences linked to the electrical interconnection project. This announcement came after an earlier inquiry into an alleged €101 million corruption case involving the liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal in Vasiliko.

    Christodoulides acknowledged that the EPPO investigations may be causing delays in the implementation of both projects. However, he asserted that these delays are necessary to maintain the country’s international reputation and ensure transparency in the management of public funds. The investigation, which began in March 2024, is reportedly scrutinising bank accounts of various politicians, state officials, and civil servants, amidst allegations of procurement fraud and misappropriation of EU funds.

    While the EPPO has remained tight-lipped about specific details, sources suggest that a court request to lift bank confidentiality has revealed significant evidence currently under examination in Luxembourg. As the investigations unfold, both governments are keenly awaiting results that could impact the future of the GSI and the broader energy strategy for Cyprus.