A road linking Deryneia to Sotira in the free Famagusta district has opened to traffic after decades of planning, in one of the most significant road infrastructure projects completed in the area in recent years.
The project cost €13.3 million plus VAT and covers a main road of approximately 3.6 kilometres and a secondary road network of approximately two kilometres.
It includes a cycle lane, pavements, bus stops, pedestrian crossings, raised junctions, underground utilities networks, new roundabouts and modern road lighting.
“Today we are handing over a significant infrastructure project for the free Famagusta district, a project that was awaited for decades and which substantially improves the connection between Deryneia and Sotira, upgrading the daily lives of citizens and road safety in the area,” Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said at the handover ceremony.
“This is a project that strengthens connectivity between the two municipal districts and contributes to creating better and safer conditions for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists,” he added.
Three retention lakes with a combined capacity of approximately 40,000 cubic metres were constructed as part of the project, along with oil separators and overflow systems, to protect the Paralimni Lake basin and manage stormwater in the area.
Construction presented a number of technical challenges, according to the Department of Public Works. These included additional earthworks due to unsuitable existing ground conditions, the need to extend the stormwater drainage system, and the relocation and reconstruction of sewage infrastructure.
The road also benefits the agricultural Kokkinochoria area, where improved road access facilitates the movement of produce and strengthens connectivity between local communities and the urban and tourist centres of the Famagusta district.
Works began in August 2022 and were completed in March 2026. The project was carried out by a joint venture of Lois Builders Ltd and Wade Adams Contracting (Cyprus) Ltd, following an open tender.
In a district that continues to live with the consequences of the Turkish invasion and occupation, infrastructure projects of this kind take on particular significance for local communities, strengthening safety, connectivity and development prospects.
“I want to thank everyone who contributed to the completion of this important project — the staff of the Department of Public Works, the Utilities, the Police, the Department of Town Planning and Housing which drew up the regulatory plan, local government, the contractor, and the residents of the area for their patience and cooperation throughout the works. Today we are handing over a project of substance, one that strengthens safety, connectivity and the development prospects of the area,” Vafeades said.