Nicosia: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides announced the country's strategic goal of achieving water security through specific actions at the inauguration of two new water reservoirs, "Cleo" and "Erato," in Nicosia. These GLS-type water tanks, with a combined capacity of 17,200 cubic meters, are part of the broader efforts to address water challenges exacerbated by climate change.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of water conservation, noting that Cyprus has one of the highest water consumption rates in the EU, with some regions using over 500 liters per person daily. The inauguration was attended by Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, highlighting the project's strategic significance in ensuring the capital city's water sufficiency even during supply interruptions.
The President outlined plans for water projects exceeding 200 million euros from 2024 to 2030, focusing on unconventional water sources, infrastructure improvements, and demand reduction. He acknowledged the UAE's role in supporting desalination efforts, which are expected to cover 80% of the water supply needs.
Addressing the climate crisis's impact on Cyprus, President Christodoulides cited scientific studies that indicate a faster-than-average temperature increase and a decline in annual rainfall since the mid-1990s. He stressed that managing water resources is crucial, especially as the upcoming water year is among the driest since 1902.
President Christodoulides highlighted the government's commitment to reducing water losses, which can reach up to 40% in some areas, and promoting water awareness to decrease consumption by 10%. He underscored the importance of water security for the primary sector and the necessity for all stakeholders to contribute to conservation efforts.
Constantinos Yiorkadjis, President of the Nicosia District Local Government Organisation, described the reservoirs as critical infrastructure for water security amid climate change and rising demand. He emphasized the need for water reserves and network loss reduction, ensuring no community or business lacks access to water.
Yiorkadjis also acknowledged President Christodoulides' intervention in the Mia Milia Wastewater Treatment Plant's operation until 2032 and noted the UN's tender for sewage and treated water pipelines. The reservoirs' innovative glass-lined steel technology offers durability and low maintenance, with the 2.13 million pound project funded by the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility.