Cyprus has officially rolled out its Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMP) for Limassol and Larnaca, a significant step toward making its urban spaces greener and more accessible. Funded under the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, these projects aim to tackle traffic congestion, improve public transportation, and promote eco-friendly alternatives such as cycling and walking.
At a joint event on Friday, attended by representatives from the European Commission’s DG Reform and the European Investment Bank (EIB), the projects were formally introduced, marking the beginning of Cyprus’ green transition in urban areas.
Government’s Commitment to Sustainable Urban Development
Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades emphasized the government’s dedication to creating cities that are not only accessible but also environmentally friendly. He outlined two key goals: promoting public transport and reducing the reliance on private vehicles, and upgrading the national vehicle fleet with electric and low-emission vehicles.
Vafeades highlighted how these initiatives in Limassol and Larnaca will reduce traffic, boost public transport infrastructure, and encourage cleaner modes of transport, such as walking and cycling. “By investing in sustainable urban mobility, we’re ensuring that our cities become more livable, accessible, and resilient for the future. The long-term benefits will not only protect the environment but also improve the quality of life for all Cypriots,” he said.
He also acknowledged the vital role of partnerships, expressing gratitude to DG Reform, the EIB, and local authorities for their efforts in bringing these projects to life. Vafeades said, “Today marks the beginning of a new era for sustainable urban mobility.”
€100 Million Investment for a Greener Future
Speaking on behalf of the Finance Ministry, Andreas Zachariades, Permanent Secretary of the Directorate-General for Growth, outlined the financial backing for the project. He explained that the €100 million investment, which includes €26.5 million allocated for sustainable mobility projects in Limassol and Larnaca, is supported by local, national, and international funds, with major contributions from the EU’s Recovery and Resilience facility and the European Investment Bank.
Zachariades highlighted the importance of integrating sustainable transport into the broader EU objectives, including the European Green Deal. He also mentioned that an additional €5 million will go toward enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities, as well as for cyclists and pedestrians.
“These investments align with our vision of improving urban mobility while contributing to climate neutrality and environmental sustainability,” Zachariades added.
European Investment Bank on the Importance of Collaboration
Kyriacos Kakouris, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, underscored the significance of teamwork in realizing these ambitious plans. He announced that the project’s design phase had been completed by the EIB advisory service and that implementation is underway, with 62 kilometers of improved transport corridors, including bus lanes and bike paths.
Kakouris also noted that the plan includes the construction of three central bus stations—one in Larnaca and two in Limassol—as well as four park-and-ride stations. “This is a pivotal step in helping Cyprus meet its climate targets,” he said, adding that sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns, improving the overall livability of cities by making transport faster, more efficient, and safer for all, including people with disabilities.
European Commission Recognizes Cyprus’ Progress
Judit Rozsa, Acting Director-General of the European Commission’s DG Reform, praised Cyprus for its efficient rollout of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans. She noted that these initiatives form part of Europe’s larger effort to reduce car dependency in urban areas and meet climate goals.
“In Cyprus, over 90% of trips are made by car, contributing to road safety issues, environmental degradation, and a lower quality of life,” Rozsa said. She applauded the swift transition from project design to implementation and highlighted how these mobility efforts serve as a model for other European cities aiming to improve sustainability.
Rozsa concluded by reaffirming the European Commission’s ongoing support for Cyprus in its mobility and reform efforts, emphasizing the broader importance of these projects in contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.
Source: cyprus-mail.com