Unions warn over aging garbage truck fleet after accidents in Cyprus

Trade unions OHO-SEK and SIDIDEK-PEO have expressed grave concern following two recent accidents involving garbage trucks in Paphos and Nicosia. On September 22, 2026, unions reported an incident involving a private contractor's truck in Paphos, which followed a separate accident involving a municipal vehicle in Nicosia the previous day.

Representatives highlight that 40% of the currently operating garbage collection fleet is over 20 years old, with some vehicles exceeding 30 years of service. The unions argue that the increasing frequency of such accidents poses a serious threat of further injuries and fatalities among municipal workers. They are calling for urgent state financial support for municipalities to facilitate the renewal of vehicle fleets as part of the broader green transition.

The organizations have vowed to take all necessary measures to protect employees, including potential mobilization of local government workers if immediate solutions are not found. They emphasize the need to establish strict inspection procedures and maintenance protocols to ensure workplace safety.