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Cyprus is gearing up to roll out two new systems to better enforce traffic violations captured by radar cameras and to ensure fines reach offenders who have avoided detection or failed to pay up, according to a report by Kathimerini's Christo Bouris.
The systems, which include a “photo radar list” and a digital platform called e-Tol, are nearing full operational status, said Harris Evripidou, Assistant Director of the Traffic Department. These measures are part of Cyprus’s bid to address a backlog of unpaid fines that’s affecting nearly 100,000 cases, including roughly 5,000 violations by Turkish Cypriots.
Photo Radar List Targets Missed Fines
The photo radar list is designed to catch those who have not received their fines by mail, often due to being missed by the postal system or changes in address. Officers will have access to this list and will conduct checks at key points such as airports, ports, and roadblocks. “If a person travels and has an outstanding fine from the radar system, they will be served the summons on the spot and given 30 days to settle it,” explained Evripidou.
This list will extend to Turkish Cypriots, who, when stopped at roadblocks, will also be able to receive and pay their outstanding fines. This initiative aims to close a long-standing gap that has allowed fines to remain unpaid and unaddressed.
e-Tol System Addresses Corporate and Tourist Violators
The e-Tol system will make it easier to track drivers of vehicles registered to companies or rented to tourists. Through this platform, companies that receive a fine can log the responsible driver’s details online, ensuring the fine is directed to the correct individual. For rental companies, the system allows fines to be processed and sent to tourists in their home countries, an area that has proven difficult to enforce in the past.
Significant Backlog of Unserved Fines
The need for these systems is underscored by the current backlog of fines, which officials say has been an obstacle to road safety enforcement. With thousands of fines left unserved, the government is hopeful that these measures will streamline the penalty process, enhance accountability, and help reduce traffic violations on Cypriot roads.
