Cyprus Authorities Seek Solution to Water Shortage Problem

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Cyprus is discussing ways to address the water shortage problem. According to the Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panayiotou, the country is experiencing “the 10th driest year in terms of rainfall since 1900.”

Amid serious concerns for the country's agricultural sector, proposed measures range from stricter penalties for water misuse to expanding purification systems and providing subsidies.

“We are facing a prolonged period of drought, and in response, the Cabinet has approved a series of measures aimed at combating this issue,” stated the minister.

The issues primarily concern water supply and irrigation in the agricultural sector. Measures include operating wells from July to December this year to increase water supplies to farmers.

The government also plans to desalinate brackish water by installing five water purification systems for irrigation purposes.

Subsidies will be provided for the installation of private small-scale seawater desalination units for irrigation. Farmers and producers will have the opportunity to improve water supply, particularly for communities facing critical water needs due to drought.

All steps will be taken in cooperation with local organizations and water management authorities to reduce water losses and wastage.

Additionally, the government has decided to tighten laws on wastewater discharge and will implement measures to increase fines and improve enforcement procedures.

Furthermore, a public awareness campaign will be launched to educate the population about the necessity of reducing water consumption.