Newsroom
Three months after the unanimous approval by Cyprus’ Parliament to reduce fines for traffic violations caught by stationary cameras, the law has yet to be implemented.
The new law lowers fines from €300 to €85 for vehicles photographed crossing the second line or stopping in pedestrian crossings while the traffic light is red.
The delay, though expected, stems from state officials informing lawmakers that the contractor company needs time to make necessary software and equipment changes, complicated by subcontractor involvement.
Implementation is now set to be announced by ministerial decree. Some MPs estimate the process will take six months, while others accuse the government of deliberate delays.
According to sources at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, specifically the Department of Electromechanical Services, the upgrades may take at least 12 months to complete.
The financial burden remains the biggest challenge. Officials estimate that the law's implementation, which reduces fines to €85, could cost taxpayers over €1 million. Alternative solutions are being considered to mitigate the impact.
This financial hurdle is not new; similar challenges arise with any upgrades to the camera enforcement system. These include the long-pending integration of countdown timers to aid drivers at intersections with cameras.
[Information sourced from 24 News]
