**Rapid Response Teams Planned After Highway Chaos**
The Justice Ministry of Cyprus has announced plans to establish special rapid intervention teams following a significant disruption on the Nicosia-Limassol highway, which was closed for seven hours due to an overturned lorry. The incident, which occurred on Friday afternoon, has prompted officials to reassess and enhance the operational readiness of emergency services in the region.
In a statement released on Friday, the ministry acknowledged the considerable inconvenience caused to thousands of motorists during the highway closure, highlighting the urgent need for improved response strategies. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris has directed the formation of these specialized teams in each district, consisting of police officers, firefighters, and, when necessary, specialized private companies.
The primary objective of these rapid intervention teams will be to swiftly remove obstacles from roadways and facilitate the quick reopening of motorways following serious incidents. The ministry emphasized that the initiative would be supported by adequate funding to ensure that the teams are equipped with the necessary tools and resources to operate effectively across all provinces.
The highway closure occurred after a lorry transporting gravel overturned near the Dali industrial area shortly before 4 PM. The vehicle collided with the central barrier, crossed into the opposite carriageway, and spilled its load across both sides of the motorway. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene to manage the situation, which included the removal of the vehicle and the clearing of gravel from the road.
As a result of the incident, the highway was closed in both directions, causing significant delays for commuters. One lane towards Nicosia was reopened around 9 PM, while the remaining lane was cleared and reopened shortly after midnight.
In addition to the establishment of rapid response teams, the Justice Ministry underscored the importance of timely public information during emergencies. The traffic police will implement organized diversion plans and provide updates through various media outlets and social media platforms to keep motorists informed of road conditions and alternative routes.
The ministry has committed to addressing the funding requirements submitted by the police and fire brigade to support the creation and operation of these rapid intervention teams. This proactive approach aims to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of emergency responses to similar incidents in the future.
The recent highway chaos has drawn attention to the need for improved infrastructure and operational protocols to minimize disruptions and ensure the safety of all road users. As the ministry moves forward with its plans, it hopes to mitigate the impact of such incidents and enhance the overall resilience of the transportation network in Cyprus.