**Cyprus to Pilot AI Cameras Targeting Phone-Using Drivers to Cut Road Deaths**
Cyprus is set to introduce a pilot program utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) cameras aimed at reducing road fatalities caused by distracted driving, particularly due to mobile phone usage. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades announced this initiative during the inaugural session of the newly formed House Transport Committee, emphasizing the urgent need to address the issue of distraction on the roads.
Minister Vafeades characterized the use of mobile phones while driving as a significant threat to road safety, describing it as a "plague" that contributes to numerous accidents and fatalities. Police data supports this assertion, indicating that distraction is one of the leading causes of road collisions in the country. The primary goal of the AI camera scheme is to enhance road safety rather than merely impose penalties. Vafeades stated, “Anyone holding a mobile phone must be penalised. Only that way will we stop phone use while driving — and only that way will we stop the deaths.”
The pilot program will not be implemented abruptly; instead, it will be accompanied by educational efforts to raise awareness among drivers about the dangers of using mobile phones while operating a vehicle. This approach aims to foster a culture of safety on the roads before the full rollout of the technology.
In addition to the AI camera initiative, Vafeades announced two significant changes to the existing photo enforcement system. Camera vans, which have primarily been stationed on motorways, will now also operate in urban areas, where a higher incidence of road deaths has been recorded. Furthermore, fixed cameras will be installed at the beginning and end of motorways to monitor average speeds, automatically reporting drivers who exceed the speed limit.
The current contract for the photo enforcement system is set to run until September 11, 2027, with an option for a two-year extension. This extension reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing road safety measures.
During the session, concerns regarding project delays and the need for transparency were raised by various members of the committee. ALMA MP Odysseas Michailidis indicated that his party would propose a bill aimed at improving project contracts and ensuring transparency in the execution of transport-related initiatives. Minister Vafeades welcomed this proposal, highlighting the importance of addressing delays and maintaining transparency in the ministry's operations. He noted that efforts are underway to appoint project directors tasked with monitoring projects and reporting on their progress.
Traffic congestion in Limassol also emerged as a pressing issue during the discussions. MPs expressed concerns about the deteriorating traffic conditions, which they identified as a significant quality of life issue for residents. Vafeades acknowledged the problem, stating that upgrading and completing the road network is a priority for the ministry. He revealed that he had met with four mayors from Limassol and two community leaders to discuss traffic needs and available funding, resulting in a list of 60 projects identified for immediate implementation.
The minister also mentioned that around 12,000 new vehicles are added to Limassol’s roads each year, exacerbating the congestion problem. Plans for the northern Limassol bypass are in the works, with a tender targeted for launch by the end of 2026. However, the completion of this project is expected to take three to four years, prompting the ministry to explore interim solutions to alleviate traffic in the meantime.
Another critical issue discussed was the condition of school buses in Cyprus. An audit report indicated that 35% of school buses inspected at public testing centers were deemed unfit for service. Vafeades noted that the ministry had ordered these inspections due to concerns about the reliability of private vehicle testing centers. The Transport Committee chairman, Sotiris Ioannou, announced that the condition of school buses would be the focus of the next committee session, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of school transportation.
As Cyprus prepares to implement these new measures, the government aims to foster a safer driving environment and reduce the number of road fatalities associated with distracted driving. The pilot program and accompanying initiatives reflect a proactive approach to addressing the pressing challenges of road safety in the nation.