The lorry drivers’ union has condemned the government’s decision to install warning signs banning lorries from overtaking on the main road from Pareklisia towards the exit for the Limassol general hospital.

In a letter sent on Wednesday, the union warned Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades that he should hold an immediate meeting “to avoid any actions on the part of the carriers”.

The latest intervention follows an earlier letter sent on September 13 through Povek, in which the union detailed its objections to the measure.

The union says it has attempted twice to reach the minister by phone to no avail, before resorting to a second formal appeal.

Their main argument is that if a slower vehicle in the left lane travels below the speed limit, trucks will be forced to remain behind it, causing traffic congestion.

Preventing trucks from overtaking each other, it argues, effectively restricts the flow of commercial transport.

Highlighting that intercity routes were designed to streamline transport and support trade, the union insists that the needs of large lorries must be considered.   

It argues that, at specific congested points, authorities should instead examine restrictions on private cars rather than on commercial vehicles which prove vital to the economy.

Finally, the union stresses the importance of social dialogue before implementing traffic-related decisions.

The letter calls on the ministry to reconsider the ban and engage in immediate discussions to avoid escalating tensions within the transport sector.