Nicosia and Limassol to install ‘smart’ traffic lights to tackle congestion

The Public Works Department of the Republic of Cyprus is close to awarding a contract to install ‘smart’ traffic lights in Nicosia and Limassol, which are expected to help reduce road congestion.

The decision on the successful contractor depends on an upcoming ruling by the Administrative Court. The tender for the project was announced back in January 2024, but the procedure was delayed due to a complaint that was filed.

At the first stage, the system will be implemented at 125 signal-controlled intersections: 75 in Nicosia and 50 in Limassol.

The new traffic lights will operate using sensors that analyse the number of vehicles, traffic speed and flow density in real time. The system will be able to automatically adjust the duration of traffic-light signals depending on road conditions.

The project is expected to:
— reduce journey times by 10–25%;
— cut road delays by 15–30%;
— reduce the number of stops and accelerations by 10–30%;
— shorten public transport travel times by approximately 28%;
— reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

In addition, the system will give priority to public transport and emergency services, and in the future it will be able to connect up to 500 signal-controlled intersections across the Republic of Cyprus.

The project is estimated to cost €7.1 million excluding VAT. Funding is being provided with the support of the European Regional Development Fund under the EU’s «THALIA 2021–2027» programme. The project will be implemented over 24 months, followed by five years of system maintenance.

The new technology is expected to replace the current system of fixed traffic-light timing intervals and help reduce queues on the busiest roads.