Environment Minister Maria Panayiotou told the House Environment Committee on Wednesday that Cyprus faces its most prolonged drought on record, with 2025 marking the driest year since 1901.
Desalination now permanent solution
The government has taken the political decision to cover all domestic water needs through desalination, freeing dams exclusively for irrigation. Seven new or expanded plants (Garillis, Kissonerga, Limassol port, Moni, Episkopi, Vasiliko and Free Famagusta) are either on line or nearing completion.
- €140 million budgeted for 2026 desalinated water purchases; the highest amount ever
- €200 million pipeline replacement programme underway to slash network losses
- Mobile units running at full capacity
Mountain communities currently outside the network will gradually connect; western Nicosia’s 29 villages join by 2030 via the Vasiliko–Nicosia pipeline Phase B.
Environmental concerns
MPs raised brine disposal and falling fish stocks. The Environment Department promised a cumulative impact study and is exploring commercial uses for brine. Cloud seeding was ruled out after expert talks with Israel and UAE showed no reliable evidence of success.
Akamas National Park
Road network works resume this month with stricter environmental conditions and reduced footprint. The Akamas Office is operational, park wardens are being recruited and full completion remains on track for 2027.
Akrotiri Lake pollution
Committee members described the situation as “tragic” after a site visit – flamingos failed to appear this year. The Ministry, British Bases and local authorities are mapping pollution sources. Zakaki’s central sewerage system marks major progress, with inspections ongoing.
Trimiklini fish farm scandal
Criminal investigation into the financial side nears completion; findings go to the Attorney-General soon. All licences remain revoked.
Swimming pools under scrutiny
AKEL MP Nikos Kettitos called it “unacceptable” that hundreds of thousands of tonnes sit in private pools while agriculture suffers. The Water Development Department has always opposed potable water for pools and is discussing seawater alternatives for coastal hotels and new developments.
Also read: Audit Office criticises failures in water management in Cyprus
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