Farewell to speed bumps, hello to 'cushions'

The removal of road humps continues across Cyprus, with authorities considering the installation of "cushions" (commonly used abroad) and islands instead of cameras at points where measures for road safety are needed.

According to Transport Minister Alexis Vafeiadis, "over 50 road humps have been removed so far." When asked if there is any delay in their removal, the Minister responded negatively, noting, "I have stated many times that this won't happen in a year; it's an ongoing process. Road humps started around 2000 under Averof Neophytou. If it took us about 24 years to reach where we are today, it can't be overturned in a month. Where additional traffic congestion measures are not needed, road humps are removed."

Regarding the cost of removing a road hump, the Minister stated that a simple removal and filling with asphalt costs around €1500, but in many areas, it will cost more due to the need for traffic congestion projects.

Asked if only cameras will be placed instead of road humps, Mr. Vafeiadis replied, "Cameras are not the first choice but the last. We want to install a passive element at points that, by its presence, forces the driver to reduce speed, such as the so-called 'cushions,' which are like road humps but square-shaped, allowing drivers to pass on either side, but they must reduce their speed to do so. There are also islands and other measures in the Public Works toolbox." He emphasized that these specific measures are being studied by experts, and depending on each road's case, the appropriate system will be implemented.

It is reminded that 2,500 road humps will be removed within the territory of the Republic of Cyprus, while the only road humps that will remain are those outside schools for safety reasons.

[This article was translated from its Greek original]