Larnaca parents protest school bus route cancellations

Since the start of the 2026 school year, students and families in Larnaca have faced significant transportation disruptions. The Federation of Secondary Education Parents of Larnaca has reported that Cyprus Public Transport, the company contracted for school routes, has repeatedly cancelled services, leaving hundreds of students without school access. Tensions escalated on September 17 and 18, following the suspension of the Anaphotia-Alethriko route due to incidents of vandalism and disorder on buses.

Transport authorities and the Ministry of Transport have defended the cancellations, citing safety concerns and the need to protect the fleet after seats were damaged. The ministry, represented by public transport director Andreas Nikiforou, stated that suspensions are unavoidable until the culprits are identified. However, parents have criticized the government for attempting to shift responsibility onto them. The Federation president, Costas Costa, argued that schools and authorities should focus on identifying the specific individuals responsible rather than punishing all students with blanket service cancellations.

Further concerns regarding systemic issues, such as overcrowding, a lack of tracking systems for passengers, and shortages of buses and staff, have been raised. Parents continue to demand the resumption of all routes and a meeting with the Transport Ministry to establish a more reliable, safe, and organized transportation system.