Nicosia, Cyprus. The operator of the Pame Express park-and-ride service said it can continue operations for two more months as it seeks a definitive solution to a driver shortage. The service had been set to be suspended on March 23, 2026.
Service continuation and usage
The Pame Express service connects the GSP stadium to Nicosia’s city center. The transport ministry confirmed the service would continue, citing high usage.
Ministry comments on driver shortage
Andreas Nikiforou, a senior official at the transport ministry, told parliament that around 500 to 600 people use the service daily. He said the risk to Pame Express stems from a driver shortage affecting Cyprus and other parts of Europe, describing drivers as “like an endangered species.”
Responsibility and discussions with the operator
Nikiforou said it is the operator’s responsibility to find drivers. The ministry has held several meetings with the operating company, Cyprus Public Transport, to find a solution.
Possible licensing changes
One idea discussed is changing the requirements for a professional bus driver license by lowering the age limit.
Operator outlook
Tryfonas Hadjichristoforou, chief financial officer of Cyprus Public Transport, said the company would do its utmost to keep the Pame Express service running. He said the company can keep the service running for another two months and expects a comprehensive proposal by then.
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