CYPRUS: Budget for road network sound barriers is far from sufficient

According to Cyprus Transport Minister Vasiliki Anastasiadou the state budget allocated for noise reduction on the island’s road network is insufficient for comprehensive coverage.

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Whereas, according to the Ministry, a total amount of €50 mln is needed, the Minister said that the government has only budged €2 mln for sound barrier works in their three-year plan.

The above information was provided by the Transport Minister, following a question by DISY MP Anita Demetriou.

Demetriou had asked for information regarding when the Environmental Noise Environmental Measurements Department had last carried sound pollution studies, as well as whether there was a plan for tree planting along a particular motorway, in order to create a natural sound barrier which will also absorb exhaust fumes.

Anastasiadou said the approved budget of the Department of Public Works for the installation of motorway sound barriers for the period 2018-2020, amounts to €2 mln and concerns the installation of barriers in sections of the Limassol bypass, and the Nicosia – Kokkinotrimithia highway (Archangelos Avenue).

In order for the government to be able to meet all the necessary requirements for the installation of sound barriers islandwide, the necessary money would have to be approved, said the Minister.

She said installing sound barriers for the existing road network, an estimated budget of €50 mln is needed.

Barrier walls can reduce highway noise by almost half. The structures are typically made out of wood, concrete or brick—materials that absorb or deflect sound and effective in reducing noise pollution.