**Pedestrian Crossings Malfunction in Nicosia, Causing Safety Concerns**
Nicosia, Cyprus – On Thursday, several busy pelican crossings in Nicosia were reported out of service, raising safety concerns for pedestrians navigating the city’s main thoroughfares. The malfunctioning crossings include the Aluminium Tower T-junction, which links Limassol Avenue and Aglandjia Avenue; the Apoel T-junction, connecting Makarios Avenue and John F. Kennedy Avenue; and another T-junction that connects Makarios Avenue with National Guard Street.
Pedestrians utilizing these crossings have expressed frustration, stating that pressing the pedestrian buttons attached to the traffic lights does not activate the green walk signals. As a result, many individuals are left waiting for extended periods or are compelled to cross busy roads at their own risk, often with vehicles approaching at high speeds.
The situation is particularly concerning given that these crossings are located on some of Nicosia's busiest roads, where traffic volumes are high and pedestrian safety is paramount. Witnesses have reported that the lack of functioning signals not only disrupts pedestrian flow but also increases the likelihood of accidents as individuals attempt to navigate the roadways without proper signals.
This issue is not isolated, as similar problems were previously encountered at the pelican crossing over Stasinos Street at Eleftheria Square. However, that crossing has since been repaired, highlighting ongoing maintenance challenges within the city’s infrastructure.
Adding to the frustration, the government’s online reporting platform, “FixCyprus,” which previously allowed citizens to report issues related to the road network, is currently inoperable. Users attempting to access the site are met with a 404 error, preventing them from submitting reports about the malfunctioning crossings or other infrastructure concerns.
The Cyprus Mail has reached out to Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos and the public works department for comments on the situation and to inquire about potential timelines for repairs. However, no responses have been received as of yet.
As the city grapples with these issues, the safety of pedestrians remains a critical priority. Local authorities are urged to address the malfunctioning crossings promptly to ensure that residents can navigate the streets safely.