Nicosia and Limassol mayors revive proposal for tram networks

Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos and Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis have jointly initiated discussions with the Ministry of Transport regarding the potential implementation of tram systems in both cities. Mayor Prountzos argues that current public transport, which has relied on buses since 2010, remains inefficient, capturing only 4–5% of total journeys despite expenditures exceeding €1 billion over the past 17 years. He cites a previous municipal study that confirms the viability of a tram for high-traffic corridors, suggesting a network of approximately 20 kilometers at an estimated cost of €500–600 million.

While the mayors seek to modernize urban mobility, the Ministry of Transport appears skeptical. Sources indicate the ministry has expressed concerns regarding potential European Investment Bank funding, questioning the economic justification given current low public transport usage. Prountzos argues that the expiration of existing bus contracts in 2030 provides a strategic window to reconsider fixed-track infrastructure. He emphasizes that the proposal is currently an exploratory effort to assess viability rather than a final decision. The discussion centers on whether the project could be pursued as a state-funded investment or a public-private partnership, aiming to address both transport needs and environmental costs associated with vehicle emissions.