Newsroom
The long-debated Paphos-Polis Chrysochous road project is finally moving forward—with a major upgrade. What was once planned as a two-lane highway will now be a four-lane road, a move the government says will improve safety and boost economic growth in the region.
Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis reaffirmed the government's commitment to the project on Thursday, outlining a phased construction plan. The first stage is set to go to tender this year, with a contractor expected to be in place by September 2025. The second phase, from Polis to Stroumbi, will begin in February 2026, with the final leg to Paphos starting a year later.
“This road isn’t just about cars—it’s about giving Polis Chrysochous and the surrounding communities a future,” Vafeadis said. “It will provide quick access to education, healthcare, and jobs.”
The project will also include a connection to Mesogi and a new entry-exit point at Marathounta, aiming to improve accessibility across the region.
A Road to Growth—Or a Costly Challenge?
Beyond easing traffic, the government hopes the expanded highway will help develop the region by attracting investment, supporting tourism, and curbing urban migration.
However, the project has been plagued by legal and procedural issues. The initial contract was canceled, leading to delays and concerns over costs. Vafeadis acknowledged the setback but argued it was necessary to move forward.
“The state has regulations to follow. If we continued down the wrong path, we would either stall completely or keep moving backward,” he said, adding that €16 million had already been spent on the project, with 90% of the amount settled by the government.
The “Killer Road” Debate
Not everyone is convinced the project is on the right track. Former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides has called the existing two-lane road a “killer road,” arguing that no country in the world classifies a two-lane road as a highway.
Instead of upgrading the current road, Michaelides suggested a different approach: building a proper two-lane expressway with the potential for future expansion.
Cost is another issue. A fully developed four-lane highway is expected to exceed €320 million, sparking debate over whether taxpayers are getting the best deal. Legal missteps in terminating the original contract have also raised concerns about the government’s ability to defend its position in court.
Politics, Deadlines, and the Road Ahead
Audit Committee Chairman DIKO MP Zacharias Koulias said he was reassured that money had not been wasted, with 10% of payments withheld as a safeguard. Still, he questioned whether the current design was the safest option.
“If we can’t build the whole thing now, let’s at least build part of it properly and finish the rest when we can,” Koulias said.
Despite the challenges, the government insists the project will move forward. Lawmakers across party lines agree that the Paphos-Polis connection is essential—not just for safer travel but for the long-term development of the region.
“We support the minister and the public works department in proceeding legally, but swiftly,” said DIPA-Cooperation MP Alekos Tryfonidis. “This project must be done right—it’s about safety, growth, and the future of the area.”
