Nicosia: Senior Technical Engineer of the Water Development Department (WDD), Marios Hadjicostis, has described the inflow of water into Cyprus' dams as insignificant. From October 1st to the present day, the total inflow has reached only 1.7 million cubic meters, a figure he labels as tragic.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Hadjicostis explained that the fullness of the dams is declining as water consumption outpaces the inflow, leading to a further depletion of water reserves. He emphasized that to see a significant improvement, the average inflow should be between 10 and 12 million cubic meters. Historical data from the WDD indicates that the average inflow for October, November, and December over the past 30-35 years is around 13 million cubic meters, highlighting this year's significant shortfall.
Hadjicostis noted that while the highest rainfall rates this year were recorded in areas like Polis Chrysochous, Nicosia, Athienou, and Frenaros, these areas lack dams, meaning the increased rainfall does not contribute to water storage. He stressed the need for "torrential rains for many days, many hours in the right place" to reverse the current situation, specifically in mountainous areas and near large dams, rather than coastal regions.
The goal is to cover next year's water demand and ideally secure storage for the following two years. Addressing the issue of drought, Hadjicostis acknowledged that it is a recurring phenomenon in Cyprus, typically lasting up to three consecutive years. This year marks the fourth consecutive year of drought, and he expressed hope for a turnaround into a rainy year to meet consumer needs, particularly for farmers who have been deprived of necessary water for their crops.
He urged the public to practice water conservation irrespective of weather conditions, emphasizing that water saving should become a daily habit. Hadjicostis concluded by stating that droughts in Cyprus are persistent, and climate change is exacerbating the situation, underscoring the need for responsible and continuous management of water resources.