Audit office report reveals significant safety issues in Cyprus school bus fleet

A recent Audit Office report highlights major discrepancies in the technical inspection of school buses in Cyprus, following incidents of fire in September and November 2025. The investigation revealed that 35 percent of 326 buses tested at public centres (Kemo) were found unroadworthy, despite many holding valid certificates from private inspection centres (Ikteo). Furthermore, 53 percent of the 692 total buses failed to appear for mandatory state inspections by the deadline. Regional failure rates ranged from 39 percent in Limassol to 76 percent in Famagusta, with Nicosia performing best. The Department of Road Transport stated that problematic vehicles were either repaired or permanently retired from service, and investigative files for non-compliant buses have been handed to the police. The Cyprus Confederation of Parents' Associations has expressed deep concern, calling for strict enforcement and penalties against those violating transport regulations. The department maintains that it continues to oversee the fleet and apply corrective measures to ensure student safety.