First heavy snowfall brings familiar problems
The first significant snowfall of the winter has brought familiar disruption to the Troodos Mountains, as large numbers of drivers headed to the area to see the snow despite hazardous conditions.
According to Troodos Police spokesperson Panayiota Georgiou, wet roads and icy conditions remain in several locations, prompting repeated calls for drivers to exercise extreme caution.
Vehicles stranded on icy roads
Referring to motorists who ignored police advice and travelled to the mountains with unsuitable vehicles, Georgiou said police were continuously present on the roads, but enforcement remains challenging.
She explained that on Saturday night, vehicles attempted to ascend the mountain roads despite warnings, resulting in ten cars becoming immobilised. Police intervened to assist drivers in turning back, but she noted that many motorists fail to understand the risks, sometimes even damaging their vehicles in the process.
Police forced drivers to turn back
Georgiou added that police were forced to turn drivers back throughout the day, stressing that enthusiasm to see the snow often leads people to underestimate the dangers.
“Once people hear about snow, they get excited and want to go up to Troodos to see the conditions. However, they ignore the risks,” she said.
Special police measures for the weekend
She also confirmed that special operational measures will be in place over the weekend, with police assisting motorists and preventing unsafe access to the mountain roads where necessary.
Vehicles entering ski slopes
Another serious issue highlighted was drivers entering ski slopes with their vehicles- a practice observed on Saturday.
Georgiou urged the public to stop doing so, warning that it causes damage and undermines the image and safety of the ski area.
Final warnings to the public
Police also called on drivers not to park in prohibited areas and urged pedestrians not to walk on roads leading to Troodos, citing serious safety concerns.
Also read: First ski piste opens in Troodos, Sun Valley I ready for public
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