Transport Minister demands independent expert after bus fire in Paphos

Transport Minister Alexandis Vafeadis expressed concern following a recent bus fire in Paphos and demanded the involvement of an independent expert to investigate the causes of the incident. The minister made his statement on the Alpha Kalimera program.

According to Vafeadis, on Thursday in Paphos, a team of specialists disassembled the bus and removed the floor of the passenger compartment to identify the source of the fire. The investigation is being conducted by fire experts; the final report is expected within a few days.

The minister reminded that in 2023, three to four bus fires were recorded in Cyprus, after which measures were taken: the operation of many vehicles was suspended until automatic fire suppression systems were installed, and vehicle inspections were strengthened. Vafeadis noted that after these measures, there were almost two years without similar incidents, making the new case in a region where the contractor emphasizes maintenance quality particularly concerning.

He highlighted the safety risk — the bus in Paphos could have been carrying students — and insists that an independent expert review all similar incidents and provide recommendations. The goal is to gain additional confirmation of the effectiveness of the measures taken and reduce the likelihood of recurring incidents.