The Cyprus Railways Consortium (CRC) has urged the Cypriot government to adopt an island-wide approach to railway development. This follows recent comments from the Minister of Transport, Communications and Works, Alexis Vafeades, on a proposed link between Larnaca, Limassol and Nicosia.

The CRC is a group of international railway manufacturers, funders, constructors, operators and legal experts. The group notes that the proposed “triangle” line marks an important starting point, but a broader strategy is needed to deliver lasting benefits for the island.

Cyprus Railways Consortium calls for a bold, all-island railway vision to unite Cyprus

© Cyprus Railways Consortium

Yiannakis Kaponis, Head of the Cyprus Railways Consortium said:

The idea of a triangle linking Larnaca, Limassol and Nicosia is a start. However, any national railway plan must serve the entire island, not just its economic triangle. A modern transport system should unite Cypriots from every community and region — from Paphos to Famagusta — and connect Cyprus internally as well as to the wider region.

The Consortium has developed conceptual designs for a North–South and East–West rail network, incorporating potential tourist routes to Ayia Napa, Protaras and Paphos, as well as urban light rail systems in Nicosia and Limassol. These studies were prepared in collaboration with international transport engineers, European financial institutions and global rail manufacturers. No formal feasibility study has yet been completed.

According to Kaponis, a modern railway could support Cyprus’s environmental goals, improve accessibility, and strengthen internal and regional transport links. ThCRC supports the creation of a National Rail Development Council to coordinate planning between government, industry, academia and civil society.

The group also welcomed the Minister’s interest in seeking European Union funding, noting that securing such support will require “a clear, inclusive and technically credible plan that serves the entire island”.

A stakeholder meeting is scheduled to take place in London in March 2026 to explore options for a fully funded, operational rail system for Cyprus.

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