Gas Leak in Engomi Forces Evacuation of Several Buildings

A gas leak in the Nicosia suburb of Engomi prompted the evacuation of several buildings late Sunday night. Authorities later removed the gas cylinders involved as a safety precaution.

According to emergency services, the incident occurred at a restaurant located next to a construction site. Six 500-liter gas cylinders fell into a pit on the site. The cylinders reportedly belonged to three nearby businesses—two restaurants and a hotel.

In response, officials quickly shut off electricity in the area, sealed off the site, closed surrounding roads, and urged people within a 500-meter radius to evacuate.

A safety perimeter was established, and several buildings—including the restaurant, a hotel, and a bowling alley—were evacuated. Early reports suggest the leak was caused by ground subsidence at the construction site.

By Monday morning, all six liquefied gas cylinders had been safely removed. However, the area remains closed off as authorities continue inspections.

Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos said on social media that he was present during the removal operation and thanked the police, fire department, Ministry of Labour, and the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) for their swift and coordinated response.