**New Transport Minister to Explore Park-and-Ride Expansion to Alleviate Traffic Congestion**
In a bid to tackle the growing issue of traffic congestion in Cyprus, the newly appointed Transport Minister, Evie Tsolaki, has expressed her intention to consider expanding the island's park-and-ride services. This initiative aims to enhance urban mobility and provide relief to both residents and visitors navigating the bustling towns and cities across the island.
During her first statements to the media, Tsolaki emphasized the importance of addressing traffic congestion, which she described as a priority that significantly impacts daily life. "It is one of the suggestions which will be studied because it certainly helps," she stated, highlighting the dual benefits of park-and-ride services: easing congestion and increasing the availability of parking spaces in urban areas.
The park-and-ride system allows commuters to park their vehicles in designated lots on the outskirts of urban centers and transfer to public transport for the remainder of their journey. Tsolaki noted that she will engage in discussions with senior officials from her ministry to evaluate the feasibility of various proposals, including the expansion of the park-and-ride services. "We must find ways to alleviate it together with the other competent bodies," she added, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing the issue.
Despite the potential benefits of expanding park-and-ride services, the initiative faces challenges, particularly a shortage of bus drivers that has affected operations in recent months. The "Pame Express," a key route connecting the GSP Stadium with central Nicosia, was at risk of being discontinued due to this driver shortage. Andreas Nikiforou, a transport ministry official, previously described bus drivers in Cyprus as "like an endangered species," highlighting the critical need for more personnel in this sector.
In March, the employers' and industrialists' federation (Oev) proposed that the driver shortage could be mitigated by recruiting drivers from countries that drive on the left, such as India. However, Disy MP Demetris Demetriou pointed out that significant legislative changes would be necessary to facilitate such hiring practices. He suggested that the focus should instead be on finding solutions within the local population.
Currently, bus drivers in Cyprus must possess a working knowledge of the Greek language, which limits the pool of potential candidates from abroad. Additionally, obtaining a "category D" license, required for driving commercial vehicles, involves a lengthy process that can take several months. Candidates must also pass a written examination available in Greek, Turkish, and English, further complicating the recruitment of new drivers.
The issue of an aging workforce in public transport has also been a concern, with Cyprus Public Transport warning that the current cohort of bus drivers is retiring faster than new drivers are being hired. "As older drivers retire, staff numbers are simply not being renewed at the same rate," said Tryfonas Hadjichristoforou, the chief financial officer of Cyprus Public Transport, underscoring the urgency of addressing this workforce gap.
As Tsolaki embarks on her new role, the expansion of park-and-ride services remains one of several initiatives she is considering to improve transport infrastructure and alleviate traffic woes. Her upcoming meetings with ministry officials will be crucial in determining the viability of these proposals and in formulating a comprehensive strategy to enhance public transport services across Cyprus.
In conclusion, the new Transport Minister's focus on park-and-ride services reflects a proactive approach to addressing the pressing issue of traffic congestion. However, the success of this initiative will depend on overcoming existing challenges, particularly the shortage of qualified bus drivers and the need for legislative support to broaden the hiring pool. As discussions progress, the outcome will be closely watched by both commuters and stakeholders in the transport sector.