The Channel programme, which should be online for Nicosia by the end of March is part of the Cyprus-Greece Cross-Border Cooperation Programme 2007 to 2013, and is 80% EU-funded. The objective is to improve traffic conditions on major roads in Cyprus. Drivers will be able to access the system, through internet and mobile phones, and through the radio. To begin with, the system will be installed at major junctions in Nicosia and on the highways. “Cyprus is becoming digitised when it comes to transport and traffic management. It is a very advanced and innovative system which can have many benefits. This is just the beginning,” Transport Minister Mitsopoulos said.

The transport ministry is promoting a number of systems which will inform the public about buses, how to obtain and cancel tickets and other systems which will help the public whether they are using their own vehicles or public transport. Mitsopoulos said that the ministry would need to begin promoting the use of electronic and hybrid cars as it is an EU policy to reduce CO2 emmissions. The programme’s total budget comesto €1.5 million of which €0.9 million will be used to complete the project in Cyprus. It began in November 2012 and is due to finish in March 2014.

The first phase of the programme is to create a complete online map of Cyprus’ roads, especially within towns and cities. The second phase of the project is to install devices to monitor traffic in real-time in order to inform drivers and the police of any traffic jams, accidents, planned road works and free parking spaces in Nicosia. It is planned that the devices will be installed to cover other towns and cities at a later date. The equipment will be placed at the junction of Limassol and Athalassa Avenues at the Kalispera lights, the Athalassa and Akropoleos Avenue junction and at the Nikis and Griva Digenis Avenue junction. They will also be placed on the Archangelos Michail and Griva Digenis Avenue junction and the Strovolos Avenue and Pericleous Road junction.

Source: Cyprus Mail