TODAY, Cyprus will mark the height of this year’s mobility week with events all over the island.
The event in Nicosia will include closing off part of Makarios III Avenue from cars, from 10am to 2pm. The street however will be open to pedestrians and cyclists.
The main message behind “Nicosia without cars” is to introduce to the public the fact that there are other ways of getting around the city apart from their car, such as by bike, walking or using the new bus system.
“We want people to embrace the idea of other modes of transport,” said Andreas Matsas, Head of the Traffic Management Committee. “We are inviting people to embrace the demonstration but also this way of life,” Matsas added.
The campaign also aims to promote environmental issues that are involved with freeing ourselves from the constraints of cars. Alexandra Attalides, Representative of the European Parliament for Cyprus would like to encourage the public to use the new bus system commenting on how it would “save energy and our health.”
The event will include cycling demonstrations, karate exhibitions and a presentation of the new buses and their routes from the Nicosia bus company OSEL. Information will also be provided on how to move around the city in a more environmentally conscious way.
Andy Hadjivasiliou, head of cycling organisation, Podilatokinisis, explained how he wanted people to accept the bicycle as a mode of transport, especially since 37 per cent of Nicosians own on average four cars.
“We need to have adequate cycle routes though and not just bits and pieces of roads that people end up using for parking anyway,” added Hadjivasiliou. He explained that he would like the end result of this to be that a substantial portion of the population gets around by bike. Matsas also reiterated this point by suggesting that bikes should be available to rent in the city.
The annual Bike Tour of Nicosia will also be available to join for those wanting to experience a leisurely wander round the capital by bicycle. It begins at 10am in Makarios III Avenue.
European Mobility Week began on September 16 and ends on the 22nd.

Cyprus Mail.