An unauthorised kiosk operating within a protected zone of the Akamas Peninsula was defaced over the weekend with spray-painted messages such as “Leave,” “Illegal,” and “Save Akamas”.
The kiosk is situated near Avakas Gorge, an area designated under the EU’s Natura 2000 network due to its significant ecological value.
Environmental organisations, including Terra Cypria, have previously raised concerns about unauthorised kiosks in the area, stressing their potential threat to wildlife, such as the Bonelli’s eagle and endangered sea turtles, which require undisturbed habitats for breeding.
Officials have acknowledged the illegality of kiosks appearing in Akamas and ordered the removal of one which started operating near Lara-Toxeftra. However, the other near Avakas Gorge remains operational, with authorities citing complexities regarding its status, as it is situated on private land.
Environmentalists argue that the presence of unauthorised structures in Akamas sets a precedent for future violations in protected areas.
(Editor’s note: The featured image has been edited to remove the telephone number of the kiosk)
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