Newsroom
Stuck in traffic? Cyprus is rolling out a high-tech fix. Since 2021, the Public Works Department has been installing ''smart'' traffic lights that can literally see cars, buses, and motorcycles and adjust their timing on the fly to keep traffic moving.
“These systems are very encouraging and effective,” said Alexis Avgoustis, executive engineer at the Traffic Studies and Road Safety Branch. The lights use sensors to detect vehicles waiting at intersections, then tweak green lights, skip unnecessary phases, or prioritize certain turns, basically thinking on their wheels to reduce jams.
Makarios Ave lights in Nicosia
According to Kathimerini's Marios Christofi, already, drivers in Nicosia have noticed the difference at Makarios Avenue, Solomos Square, Omirou Avenue, and near Nicosia General Hospital. Limassol has smart systems at the Agia Filaxei roundabout and Amathountos Avenue, while Paphos sees them at Konia, Kissonerga, and near the Neon Mall.
Avgoustis says the technology works by recording traffic patterns and feeding them into a controller running an algorithm that decides, in real time, how to adjust the lights. If a bus is coming, for example, the system can extend the green light to let it pass without stopping.
Astromeritis lights
The Public Works Department is already studying new sites to expand the system, including busy intersections along the Nicosia Ring Road, Limassol roundabouts, and key junctions in Paphos.
“Traffic should flow, people should get to work or home faster, and roads should be safer,” Avgoustis said. “These smart lights are a step toward that future.”
For frustrated drivers, it may feel like the traffic lights are finally learning their moves, and Cyprus’ streets are finally catching up.
Nicosia General Hospital lights.
Lights of Solomos Square in Nicosia.
