Most problems identified in a 2016 audit of Cyprus’s water management remain unresolved nearly a decade later, according to a report released on Monday by the Audit Office, which warns that delays and inadequacies threaten the sustainable use of water resources.
The follow-up audit of the Water Development Department found that state authorities have been slow to act despite increasing pressures from climate change and water scarcity. Auditor General Andreas Papaconstantinou cautioned that the situation remains problematic despite some measures taken, noting that “the prolonged period of drought our country is experiencing provides an opportunity for the best possible preparation and taking of measures, for example maintenance of dams”.
The report identifies administrative weaknesses, project delays, dam safety problems, water loss, poor aquifer conditions and inadequacies in water quality management amongst persistent failures.
Only 14 of 60 planned water projects completed despite €767 million spending
Of 60 projects envisaged in the 15-year Water Development Plan (2016-2030), only 14 have been completed. Although €767 million has been spent from the state budget, inadequate monitoring of expenditure per project makes it unclear whether funds are sufficient or additional financing is required.
The River Basin Management Plan and Flood Risk Management Plan were submitted to the European Commission years late, leading to a reasoned opinion for violation of European legislation.
Papaconstantinou emphasised that improvement requires “coordinated action, political will and full implementation of European and national obligations”.
Dam safety concerns mount as facilities exceed designed lifespan
Cyprus operates 104 large dams, 56 of which are included in the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) register. Most are aged and lack comprehensive maintenance plans and safety certificates. No independent inspection of large dams has been conducted to date, whilst not a single final certificate has been issued for private dams.
Many dams have exceeded their designed lifespan without ensuring full compliance with reservoir safety legislation. The report highlights the absence of operation and maintenance manuals for all dams, lack of systematic preventative maintenance and failure to conduct timely inspections by independent engineers.
The audit emphasises the need to prepare inundation maps in case of dam failure, particularly for dams near populated areas such as Kouris Dam. A January 2025 leak at Mavrokolymbos Dam, attributed to pipe failure, exposed problems with accessibility and preventative maintenance.
Desalination plants cause environmental damage whilst burdening consumers
Desalination plants have contributed to meeting water supply needs, but the report raises serious concerns about environmental impact and economic burden on consumers. Brine, a by-product of desalination, is discharged into the sea and has already affected marine vegetation near discharge pipes at the Larnaca and Dhekelia plants. Only two plants had secured waste discharge permits by the audit date.
Water from desalination plants exhibits corrosive properties, causing significant problems for pipework and household installations such as water heaters. A study proposed interventions including enriching desalinated water with calcium or carbon dioxide, or mixing it with dam water.
Underwater pipes for brine discharge or water transport lack marker buoys, creating risks for passing vessels and other coastal activities.
The planned policy promotes desalination as the primary means of meeting water supply needs, with dams designated for irrigation. The report warns of costs that will burden citizens and impacts on water quality.
Aquifers in critical condition with 64% chemically compromised
Some 64 per cent of Cyprus’s aquifers are in poor chemical or qualitative condition, primarily due to nitrate pollution, salinisation and inadequate controls. Estimating available water quantities remains difficult and imprecise, undermining planning efforts.
Annual water losses exceed 200 million cubic metres
Water loss problems continue, with unaccounted-for water rates in Local Water Boards reaching and exceeding 29 per cent. Total losses across Cyprus are estimated at more than 200 million cubic metres of water annually, mainly due to ageing networks.
Systematic monitoring of drinking water quality is not conducted by the majority of Local Water Boards, whilst only 26 per cent of boreholes have designated Protection Zones. Despite studies since 2009, no measures have been implemented to utilise rainwater, whilst flood management systems show delays and deficiencies.
The Advisory Committee for Water Management meets only once or twice annually without providing substantial guidance to Local Water Boards, despite calls for a more active role since 2016.
The Audit Office calls for strengthening the institutional framework with clear strategic planning, effective resource allocation and better coordination amongst authorities.
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