Significant water management issues, deteriorating networks and allegations of possible water theft came to light during discussions at the parliamentary Control Committee examining the Audit Office report on climate change adaptation.
During the session, the District Local Government Organisations (EOA) expressed particular concern, presenting data on serious water losses, ageing networks and deficiencies in monitoring and recording consumption.
The Larnaca EOA alleged that many communities show evidence of unbilled water reaching up to 40%, emphasising cases of water theft through illegal underground connections.
These practices are difficult to detect, resulting in wasteful consumption and system overload. Local authorities had not invested timely in network upgrades, consequently causing significant losses.
Paphos faces worst situation
Charalambos Pittokopitis from the Paphos EOA described the most difficult situation compared to other districts. The water supply network is antiquated with serious deterioration and continuous breakdowns.
He specifically mentioned the community of Akoursos, with just 50 residents, where the cost of replacing pipes amounts to €300,000, highlighting the disproportionate financial burden on small communities.
Particular reference was made to the destruction of the desalination plant in Kouklia due to fire, which caused further pressure on the area’s water supply. The plant is expected to resume operations between 10 and 25 August.
He added that the largest losses were recorded in municipalities and communities, whilst efforts continue to manage the situation to avoid water supply cuts.
Limassol reports doubling breakdowns
The Limassol EOA presented a similar picture, with water supply networks in communities being particularly antiquated, often without even meters.
It was noted that in May approximately 30 breakdowns were recorded daily, whilst a month later this number had more than doubled. Water loss in the district has now reached 40%, up from 20% previously.
Infrastructure projects were proposed to mature in order to secure European funding.
The Famagusta EOA, which assumed management on 1 July, reported that water losses in 2023 reached 37% in nine communities. There was mention of absent meters and poor consumption monitoring, resulting in 4.5 billion litres of water lost annually.
In Paralimni, losses reach 40%, whilst hotel units illegally use boreholes. Smart meter installation and leak reduction projects are underway.
Targeted measures for reducing water losses
Agriculture Ministry Director General Andreas Gregoriou emphasised that the Provincial Development Organisations highlighted critical issues concerning water resource management, including extensive water quantity losses.
He noted that losses in transmission networks managed by the Water Development Department are limited. Conversely, the most serious problems are found in EOA distribution networks, mainly in areas recently transferred to their jurisdiction or where no Water Board operated until 1 July 2024.
Gregoriou referred to €8 million funding for EOAs to cover projects reducing water supply network losses. These interventions can be implemented within one year and offer immediate benefits.
He further mentioned annual support of €1 million for 2025-2027 for similar projects in communities not under EOA jurisdiction, strengthening water provision even in the most remote areas.
He stressed these moves form part of an overall water management and conservation plan aimed at strengthening the country’s water security and supporting the primary sector.
Audit Office: Two more reports in preparation
Audit Office representative Akis Kikas emphasised that three significant reports have been made on water resource management, focusing on climate change adaptation.
He noted that two more reports on losses and management control are expected, which have been submitted to the Water Development Department for opinions.
He stressed it is difficult to separate state responsibilities, whilst noting that a plan must be implemented immediately to improve reclaimed water use and limit sea discharges.
The report emphasises the need to enhance desalination plant performance with investments in renewable energy sources such as solar. Continuous operation of these plants affects water prices and burdens consumers.
Development of mobile desalination units for emergency needs was also proposed, as in the case of the Paphos fire.
The report concludes that planning €1.2 billion projects for water policy improvement is overly optimistic, with serious challenges regarding funding, coordination and intervention sustainability.
Proposals include regular updating of management plans and efficient cost recovery to limit consumer inequalities.
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