**AI Traffic Cameras Under Consideration to Combat Mobile Phone Use While Driving**
The Cypriot government is exploring the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) traffic cameras aimed at reducing the incidence of mobile phone use among drivers, as revealed during a recent session of the House transport committee. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades presented these plans, emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing road safety.
During the meeting, which marked the first gathering of the committee following the parliamentary elections, Vafeades highlighted the alarming trend of mobile phone usage while driving, identifying it as a significant factor contributing to serious traffic accidents. "Mobile phones have become a scourge," he stated, pointing out that some drivers engage in activities such as scrolling through TikTok for extended periods, which can last up to ten seconds. The minister expressed a sense of urgency in addressing this issue, stating, "We have no other choice" but to advance the use of AI cameras that would monitor and identify drivers holding mobile devices.
In addition to the proposed AI traffic cameras, Vafeades discussed the government's plans to deploy mobile vans equipped with cameras to monitor speeding and other traffic violations. These mobile units are intended to be stationed in urban areas, where the majority of fatal accidents occur. For highways, the government is considering a system that would calculate a vehicle's average speed throughout its journey, further enhancing traffic law enforcement.
The issue of traffic congestion was also a focal point of the discussion, with Disy MP Charalambos Pazaros raising concerns about the growing problem. In response, Vafeades acknowledged the increasing number of vehicles on the roads, noting that approximately 12,000 new vehicles are registered in Limassol each year. To tackle this challenge, the government has compiled a list of 60 traffic management projects, prioritizing them based on urgency and available funding.
Among the initiatives to alleviate traffic congestion, plans are in place to open two key avenues—Argyroupoleos and Stavrou. Furthermore, the government is moving forward with the Limassol northern bypass, a major infrastructure project estimated to cost €200 million. This bypass aims to ease severe traffic congestion in Limassol by connecting the eastern areas (including Amathus and Yermasoyia) with the western districts (Kourion and Ypsonas). The project is divided into several sections, each being developed independently, with the government aiming to invite tenders by the end of the year. However, Vafeades cautioned that the completion of the project is expected to take three to four years.
The introduction of AI traffic cameras and the ongoing infrastructure projects reflect the government's proactive approach to improving road safety and managing traffic flow in Cyprus. As discussions continue, stakeholders and the public will be closely monitoring the developments and potential impacts of these initiatives on road safety and traffic conditions.