**Limassol, Cyprus** – A significant infrastructure initiative aimed at alleviating persistent traffic congestion and bolstering safety within the Ayios Athanasios Industrial Area is set to move forward, with the first phase of a vital northern bypass route scheduled for tendering. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades announced on Tuesday that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the logistical challenges that have long plagued this vital economic zone, a sentiment echoed by local industrialists.
The initial tender will focus on the Evagoras Lanitis section of the planned northern bypass, a project anticipated to be put out for bid by the close of 2026. This development is part of a broader strategy to enhance connectivity and streamline the flow of goods and personnel within the bustling industrial estate. Further sections of the bypass are expected to follow in the subsequent months, signalling a concerted effort to overhaul the area’s transport network.
The impetus for this upgrade stems from the escalating traffic issues that have become a daily reality for the approximately 140 businesses established in the Ayios Athanasios area since 1978. These businesses, a cornerstone of Limassol’s industrial output, have grappled with significant delays and operational inefficiencies attributed to the current infrastructure's limitations. The Public Works Department, while acknowledging that current conditions are far from ideal, has outlined specifications for the tender intended to prevent a worsening of congestion, a measure considered a temporary palliative rather than a definitive solution.
Beyond the bypass, the development of a second emergency entrance and exit point for the industrial area is also being actively pursued. Vassos Dimitriadis, President of the Limassol Industrialists’ Association, highlighted the critical nature of this safety measure, stating, "With the intervention of the president and the minister, we are one step closer to implementing the second emergency entrance/exit for which there was awareness, as this is a safety issue." This dual access point is deemed crucial for swift emergency response times, potentially safeguarding lives and assets within the industrial zone.
The Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, currently under the stewardship of Michael Damianos and previously overseen by George Papanastasiou, has been instrumental in driving these developments. Papanastasiou had, in late October, offered assurances regarding the ongoing efforts to tackle the industrial area's multifaceted challenges. The funding for these infrastructure projects is expected to be channelled through either the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry or the Finance Ministry, underscoring the government's recognition of the industrial area's strategic importance.
The Municipality of Kouri, whose jurisdiction encompasses part of the affected area, is also involved in the collaborative process. The Ayios Athanasios Industrialists’ Association, alongside the broader Limassol Industrialists’ Association, has been a vocal advocate for these much-needed improvements. The successful implementation of these infrastructure upgrades is expected to not only mitigate existing traffic bottlenecks but also foster continued growth and attract further investment, solidifying Ayios Athanasios's position as a key industrial hub in Cyprus. The overarching objective is to create a more efficient, safer, and conducive environment for businesses to thrive.