Pancyprian organisation of the blind denounces unsafe transport conditions

On October 20, 2026, the Pancyprian Organisation of the Blind issued a formal complaint regarding the dangerous transport conditions provided for students traveling to the School for the Blind in Nicosia. Approximately 25 trainees commute weekly from Larnaca and Famagusta in a 20-seat minibus contracted by the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth. The organisation reports that complaints about the vehicle's mechanical state, safety features, and the professionalism of drivers have been ignored for over two years.

A recent incident in Aradippou saw the bus break down during rush hour after experiencing severe mechanical jolting and concerning noises. Seven passengers, including deafblind trainees who required assistance from peers to remain calm, were forced to exit the vehicle in the middle of a busy avenue. No alternative transport was provided by the bus company or the School for the Blind, forcing passengers to wait until relatives could collect them.

The organisation accuses the Ministry of Education of ignoring repeated warnings and failing to replace the unsuitable vehicle. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of the incident, while the trainees report arriving at their destination exhausted and distressed due to these recurring safety issues.