In a move to improve traffic management, the government of Cyprus has announced plans to install "smart" traffic lights across various streets in major cities. This ambitious project is expected to begin at the end of 2024, with the first installations taking place in Limassol and Nicosia.
On July 15, Alexis Vafeadis, Cyprus’ Minister of Transport, Communications, and Works, confirmed that the new smart traffic light system will be implemented over the next two years, with a projected cost of €7.1 million (including VAT). Some of the funds for this project will be provided by EU financial assistance.
What Are Smart Traffic Lights and How Will They Help?
The new system will replace the outdated traffic management system that has been in place since the early 1990s. The smart traffic lights will be equipped with sensor technology placed at key locations on the road network. These sensors will monitor real-time traffic data, allowing the system to adjust traffic light timings based on the current traffic flow, significantly reducing congestion and improving overall traffic management.
The expected benefits of the new smart traffic lights include:
10-25% reduction in travel time
15-30% reduction in waiting times at traffic lights
Up to 28% reduction in public transport travel time
8-10% reduction in fuel consumption
10-15% reduction in harmful emissions
Streets in Limassol Set to Get Smart Traffic Lights
The following streets in Limassol will be among the first to have smart traffic lights installed:
Georgiou A' Ave (81) / P. Tsaggari (Pizza Hut)
Promachon Eleftherias Ave (81) / K. Pitsilidi
Coastal Road / Gr. Dhigenis
Sp. Kyprianou / St. Stylianides
Sp. Kyprianou Ave / Gr. Avxentiou
Sp. Kyprianou Ave / Arch. Makariou Ill (Galactica)
28 October Ave (B1) / 1. Tompazi
Lord Byron / A. Sioukri
Sioukri / Olymbion
Griva Digeni Ave / L. Porfyra
Limassol Marina / Djelal Bayar
Franglinou Rousvelt / Djelal Bayar (KEO)
Franglinou Rousvelt / Demokratias
This is just a sample list of streets in Limassol, with many more to benefit from the smart traffic light system.
Streets in Nicosia Set to Get Smart Traffic Lights
In Nicosia, the following streets are also part of the smart traffic light project:
DAKRITA / LARNAKOS / KENNEDY (NIC-085-2 stream)
TH. DERVI / FLORINIS
GR. DHIGENI / TH. DERVI
ACHAION / DELFON
EVAGOROU / TH. DERVI / DIAGOROU
SOLOMOS SQ. / OMIROU
EVAGOROU / MAKARIOU
STROVOLOU / PYTHONOS
KALLIPOLEOS / ETHNIKIS FROURAS
Lemesou / RIK
Strovolou / Athalassa
These streets are among the many that will benefit from the smart traffic light system, contributing to smoother traffic and less congestion in the capital.
Expected Impact on Traffic and Environment
Once implemented, the smart traffic light system is expected to significantly reduce traffic jams and waiting times at red lights. Additionally, the smart system will help reduce overall fuel consumption and improve air quality by lowering the volume of harmful vehicle emissions.
The combination of real-time data processing and sensor technology will allow for dynamic changes in traffic signal patterns based on current road conditions, helping to create more efficient and eco-friendly urban environments.
Rent a Car in Cyprus
With new smart traffic lights making driving around Cyprus more efficient, there’s no better time to explore the island. Whether you’re visiting Limassol, Nicosia, or any other part of the island, renting a car will give you the flexibility to discover Cyprus at your own pace.
For the best car rental deals in Cyprus, visit secrental.com. Enjoy a wide selection of vehicles, affordable prices, and convenient booking options for a smooth, enjoyable trip across the island.
