Limassol mayor and disability organization discuss city accessibility issues

On October 22, 2026, the Mayor of Limassol, Yiannis Armeftis, met with representatives from the Cyprus Paraplegic Organization (OPAK) to address the significant challenges faced by people with disabilities in navigating the city. Mayor Armeftis publicly acknowledged that Limassol is currently not an accessible city, citing systemic failures in infrastructure and enforcement.

The discussion highlighted critical obstacles including vehicles obstructing narrow sidewalks, illegal parking in spaces designated for the disabled, a lack of ramps, inadequate public transportation, and poor traffic enforcement. Concerns were also raised regarding the safety risks posed by fast-moving silent scooters. Participants emphasized that the current urban environment severely restricts the mobility of citizens with disabilities.

In response, Mayor Armeftis outlined the municipality's upcoming plans to improve accessibility. These include increasing budget allocations for sidewalk improvements and the installation of ramps. The city also intends to develop 'Green Routes' to serve as accessible pathways connecting residential neighborhoods with the beachfront. Improvements at Heroes' Square, where steps have already been removed to increase accessibility, were highlighted as a template for future interventions. The administration plans to address both minor infrastructure needs, such as signage, and more complex urban accessibility issues in the near future.