Nicosia, Cyprus. Bus drivers went on strike on Friday morning, citing safety concerns and saying the government has ignored issues related to traffic lights fitted with cameras.
Unions cite safety risks from light timing and enforcement
Trade unions Omepege-Sek and Segdamelin-Peo said the speed at which traffic lights change colour, combined with the cameras recording violations and enabling fines for running red lights, has made bus driving unsafe.
Sudden braking concerns for passengers
The unions said drivers are forced to brake suddenly when lights change, which they said creates serious safety issues for passengers who are in almost all cases either seated without seatbelts or standing.
Warnings to transport ministry
The unions said they have issued repeated warnings to the transport ministry but that no substantial solution has been provided to date.
Strike duration
The strike was set to last for two hours.
How should road safety enforcement be balanced with passenger safety on public transport?