Upgrading traffic control in Nicosia and Limassol with smart lights

Nicosia and Limassol are about to get a high-tech traffic makeover with the introduction of smart traffic lights.

In an effort to relieve the deteriorating traffic congestion in Nicosia and Limassol, the Transport Ministry is prepared to begin the bidding process for the installation of smart traffic lights. This action was confirmed by Minister of Communication Alexis Vafeades.

It will take up to 24 months to complete this project, which is expected to cost about €7.2 million, and it will cover 125 of the busiest crossroads in these two cities.

The goal is to install modern smart lights at about 75 intersections in Nicosia and 50 in Limassol.

According to Vafeades, the real-time data gathered from the roads leading to these intersections will be the basis for this new system's traffic regulation. It intends to replacethe current fixed-time green and red light system, avoiding lengthy lineups in one direction.

Data from sensors, including cameras, positioned thoughtfully along the network of urban roads, is the system's main feature. The traffic lights will be operated in real time by this data.

The ultimate objective is to install smart lights at all crossroads on the island in place of the ones that are placed all these years, which will relieve traffic congestion and save commuters' time.

This approach reduces "stop-start" scenarios by 10% to 30%, travel times by 10% to 25%, delays by 15% to 35%, and travel times by 28% when using public transportation. It is also anticipated to enhance air quality, reduce pollutant emissions by 10% to 15%, and reduce overall fuel usage by 8% to 10%.

The two phases of this EU-cofinanced urban traffic control and management system's implementation will take place in Nicosia and Limassol.