**Large Ditch Next to Paphos Road Poses Safety Concerns for Motorists**
A significant safety hazard has emerged for motorists traveling between the villages of Emba and Tala in the Paphos district, as a two-metre-long ditch has opened up alongside the roadway. The Paphos police have raised alarms regarding the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for remedial action to prevent potential accidents.
On Thursday, the Paphos traffic police reported the issue, stating that the ditch presents a serious risk to drivers. They have reached out to the Emba village council, urging immediate intervention to address the safety concerns. However, as no action has been taken by the council thus far, the police have escalated the matter by notifying the police chief, Themistos Arnaoutis.
Emba mukhtar Marios Metaxas spoke to the Politis newspaper regarding the situation. He noted that the road has not merely subsided but has been displaced, indicating a more severe structural issue. Metaxas called for "more intensive repairs" to ensure the safety of motorists. He highlighted that the road needs to be widened towards Tala, and the installation of safety railings is essential, particularly because a stormwater drainage ditch runs alongside the affected section.
The mukhtar suggested that the village council's maintenance crews could undertake the necessary repairs. Alternatively, he indicated that the council might consider issuing a call for tenders to hire a contractor for the work.
As the situation develops, the Paphos police and local authorities continue to monitor the area closely, emphasizing the importance of swift action to mitigate any risks to public safety. Motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling on this stretch of road until the repairs are completed.