Blind students protest unsafe transport conditions to Nicosia school

The Pancyprian Organization of the Blind has issued a formal complaint regarding the dangerous and inadequate transport conditions for approximately 25 students traveling weekly from Larnaca and Famagusta to the School for the Blind in Nicosia. The students, who spend over two hours each way on a 20-seat minibus contracted by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth, have reported persistent issues for more than two years. Concerns include mechanical faults, malfunctioning doors and windows, and worn-out seats, all of which pose significant safety risks.

Matters reached a breaking point following a recent incident in Aradippou where seven students were forced to disembark on a busy road after the vehicle suffered a mechanical failure. The organization claims that neither the transport company nor the School for the Blind provided assistance during this incident, leaving students stranded. Consequently, the trainees have warned they may abstain from classes unless immediate action is taken. The organization is demanding an investigation into the vehicle's safety standards and its immediate replacement to ensure the physical integrity of the passengers.