One of the Eastern Mediterranean’s most important wetlands is disappearing year by year as development pressures mount on the Akrotiri Salt Lake, an environmentally sensitive area home to rare flora and fauna.
The site, which falls under both British Bases and Republic of Cyprus jurisdiction, is experiencing ongoing ecological deterioration, primarily due to major development projects in recent years. These developments have led to soil sealing, causing both Akrotiri Salt Lake and Lake Markia to receive excessive rainwater runoff, effectively turning the area into a marsh.
“The Akrotiri wetland is under enormous pressure from neighbouring developments, which continue to increase and seal the soil, resulting in rainwater flowing into the wetland throughout the year. This disturbs the natural water cycle in the area”, Terra Cypria Executive Director Koulla Michael told Phileleftheros.
Michael highlighted how excessive freshwater inflow during periods when the wetland should be dry has caused massive ecosystem changes, affecting both plant and animal species. She also raised concerns about recent sewage disposal issues in the area, calling for authorities to publish their analysis results and outline remedial measures.
Resident Panicos Constantinou described how rainwater from northern areas is being channelled into the lake through drainage pipes. “The lake’s freshwater has caused an overgrowth of reeds, changing its character and turning it into a breeding ground for mosquitoes and odours. The reed beds are spreading into Akrotiri Salt Lake through channels, transforming the entire area into a swamp”, he said.
Lake Markia, designated as a Special Protection Area for birds and a Special Area of Conservation for habitats and species, hosts rich biodiversity including significant habitats, plants, birds, invertebrates, and amphibians. It is one of the few nesting sites for ferruginous ducks and falls under the Ramsar Convention for Wetlands of International Importance.
Despite efforts by authorities, residents claim there appears to be no real commitment to solving these long-standing issues, with a lack of coordination between the British Bases and the Republic of Cyprus leading to the continued degradation of Akrotiri.
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