Nicosia, Cyprus. Both lanes of the Nicosia-Limassol highway were closed on Thursday afternoon after a lorry carrying gravel overturned near the Dali industrial area, causing major traffic disruption.
Crash and road closure
The crash occurred shortly before 4pm when the lorry struck the metal central barrier, crossed into the opposite carriageway and overturned.
Police said the vehicle was carrying a large quantity of gravel, which spilled across both sides of the motorway. The road was closed in both directions while emergency services responded and clearance operations began.
Traffic diversions
Traffic heading towards Nicosia was diverted through the emergency lane.
Motorists travelling towards Limassol were instructed to leave the motorway via the exit to the new Nicosia ring road and then join the old Nicosia-Limassol Road. Drivers were advised to rejoin the motorway at the Pera Chorio-Nisou interchange after passing the affected area.
Long queues formed in both directions following the closures.
Investigation
Police urged motorists to follow diversion signs, comply with officers’ instructions and allow additional time for their journeys while the lorry and gravel were removed.
The circumstances of the crash remain under investigation.