Transport Minister confirms Nicosia ring road on track for June 16 completion

Transport, Communications, and Works Minister Alexis Vafeadis announced on Wednesday that the Nicosia peripheral motorway project is set to be completed by June 16, 2024, with expectations for imminent delivery. Vafeadis made these remarks ahead of a meeting with representatives from the PEO and SEK unions regarding the ongoing indefinite strike at the port of Larnaca.

Addressing recent reports in the "Phileleftheros" newspaper concerning the contractor's request for a 17.5-year extension, Vafeadis affirmed that all demands from the contractor have been thoroughly evaluated and adjudicated. He emphasized that the agreed-upon completion date remains June 16, 2024, and expressed eagerness for the project's prompt delivery to benefit Cypriot taxpayers.

Vafeadis noted public statements from the contractor confirming the agreed-upon timeline and reassured that any claims by the contractor have been duly reviewed and addressed. He reiterated the government's commitment to receiving the project ahead of schedule.

Regarding statements attributed to Cyfield's executive director, George Chrysochos, denying the contents of the report and attributing delays to minor issues, Vafeadis emphasized that all extensions granted were justified. He clarified that delays were primarily due to technical challenges and subsurface morphology, absolving both the employer and contractor of liability.

Public Works officials acknowledged the contractor's request for a significant extension but emphasized that an agreement had been reached to deliver the project by June 2024. They underscored plans for future phases of the perimeter motorway project, with the next phase, B3, slated for tender within the next two months. The briefing note outlined a comprehensive timeline for subsequent phases and estimated the total project cost to be around €350 million.

[With information from CNA]