Delays to Panagouli Avenue project spark protests in Livadia

The second phase of the vital Panagouli Avenue project, connecting Larnaca to the developing area of Livadia, faces a significant delay, with construction now pushed back to 2030. Initially promised to follow immediately after the completion of the first phase two decades ago, the project is now more than 20 years behind schedule. Livadia Deputy Mayor Marios Armeni stated that authorities had previously suggested a 2028 start date before recently moving it to 2030.

Local officials highlight severe traffic congestion during peak hours, which frequently backs up onto the Ayia Napa-Rizoelia motorway and extends to the Agios Savvas church. The redirection of traffic onto an inner road passing three schools, which serve over 1,000 pupils from eight communities, poses significant road safety risks. Consequently, residents of Livadia are organizing protests to express their frustration with the lack of progress on this road, which is officially classified as being of primary importance.

While local authorities continue to demand action to address these safety concerns, the current lack of initiative from the central government has prompted the planned demonstrations. The road remains a critical artery for traffic moving toward the Kokkinochoria area and Nicosia, exacerbating the pressure on the current substandard infrastructure.