Nicosia, Cyprus. The Justice Ministry will establish special rapid intervention teams in every district following the seven-hour closure of the Nicosia-Limassol highway after a lorry overturned.
The ministry said the disruption affected thousands of motorists and highlighted the need to strengthen the operational readiness of the police, fire brigade and other relevant authorities.
District response teams
Following instructions from Justice Minister Costas Fitiris, the teams will include police officers, firefighters and, where necessary, specialised private companies.
They will focus on the immediate removal of road obstacles and the rapid reopening of motorways after serious incidents.
The programme will receive funding to ensure the teams have the required equipment and can operate effectively across all districts, the ministry said.
Highway closure
The measures follow Thursday’s closure of the Nicosia-Limassol highway after a lorry carrying gravel overturned near the Dali industrial area shortly before 4pm.
The vehicle struck the central barrier, crossed onto the opposite carriageway and overturned, scattering gravel across both sides of the motorway.
Emergency services closed the highway in both directions while they removed the lorry and cleared the road. One lane towards Nicosia reopened at about 9pm, while the remaining lane reopened around midnight.
Public information
The ministry also stressed the importance of timely public information during emergencies. Traffic police will implement organised diversion plans and provide updates through media outlets and social media.