Audit report reveals severe deficiencies in Nicosia public transport

A special report published by the Audit Office of Cyprus on October 14, 2026, details systemic issues within the Nicosia public transport system. Between November 10 and December 1, 2025, 110 audit staff members posed as regular passengers to conduct field assessments, completing 204 questionnaires. The study found that 63% of participants would not choose to use the bus again, citing the superior speed, privacy, and comfort of private vehicles.

Key findings highlighted that 55% of bus stops lacked any route information, while others displayed incorrect schedules or were missing altogether. Infrastructure was also found wanting: 32% of stops lacked shelters and 22% had no seating. Major hubs, including Solomou Square, were reported to suffer from poor hygiene and vandalism. Accessibility for passengers with disabilities was severely limited, with narrow sidewalks and faulty ramps.

While the Auditor General noted that some service aspects received positive ratings, the report highlights deep dissatisfaction with reliability and service frequency, as some routes required transfers every one to two hours. The audit process involved representatives from the Organization of Paraplegics of Cyprus to verify accessibility conditions. Further actions following the disclosure of these systematic failures remain to be specified by the authorities.