Bus drivers in Cyprus held a warning strike, citing serious issues with the traffic violation camera system. The action took place in Nicosia and was accompanied by a rally at Solomou Square. The main cause of dissatisfaction is the absence of timers at traffic lights, which prevents drivers from safely stopping their vehicles, risking fines and potential injuries to passengers.
Why drivers are demanding changes
According to representatives of drivers’ unions, the current camera system operates without any warning of signal changes. This creates dangerous situations, especially for public transport. Drivers emphasize that they are not demanding the cancellation of fines or softer penalties, but are only insisting on the introduction of a clear signal before the red light turns on.
The problem is compounded by the fact that a bus is a heavy vehicle, weighing up to nearly 20 tons. Even at low speeds, stopping requires a significant distance. In urban conditions and heavy traffic, this becomes a serious risk factor. As a result, drivers are forced to brake sharply, which can lead to injuries for passengers inside the bus.
Real incidents and risks for passengers
Union representatives note that there have already been cases of injuries. In one incident, a driver had to brake suddenly at low speed, causing a child to slip from the mother’s arms and end up near the driver’s cabin. According to industry participants, such situations occur not because of violations, but due to the specifics of the traffic light and camera system.
This is especially dangerous when there are many standing passengers on the bus. During rush hours, public transport carries dozens of people, and any sudden braking increases the risk of falls and injuries. In rainy weather, the situation becomes even more complicated, as braking distance nearly doubles.
Fines, penalty points, and pressure on drivers
An additional problem is the system of fines and penalty points. According to unions, dozens of drivers have already exceeded the allowable limit of penalty points, which could lead to license suspension. The situation is particularly acute in Limassol, where traffic density is higher.
Drivers note that they are under constant stress, since even when complying with speed limits, they can still receive fines due to the inability to stop in time. This negatively affects not only the quality of work but also overall road safety.
Authorities’ response and possible solutions
The issue has already been discussed in the Parliament of Cyprus, but no concrete decisions have yet been made. Representatives of the Ministry of Transport state that responsibility for traffic light operations lies with the Department of Public Works, which delays the decision-making process.
Amid the lack of concrete action from authorities, unions warn of a possible escalation of protests. They insist on the implementation of modern solutions such as timers or warning signals, which have long been used in many European countries and have proven their effectiveness.
Experts note that introducing timers at traffic lights is a technically simple solution that could significantly reduce the number of emergency situations. In addition, it would increase drivers’ trust in the control system and reduce tensions between the transport sector and the state.
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