Turkey's new nuclear power plant, Akkuyu, is almost ready. It is expected to start working in 2026. However, people in Cyprus are worried. Environmental groups and committees in Cyprus have shared their concerns. They are worried about the environment and people's health in Cyprus. The plant is very close to Cyprus, only 65 kilometres away. This has started a big discussion about safety.
The Cyprus Environmental Organisations Federation (OPOK) has spoken out. They say Turkey has not shared enough information. Turkey is also not following an important rule called the Espoo Convention. This rule helps countries work together on projects that can affect other countries. OPOK believes this makes everyone unsure about the plant's effects. They also think nuclear energy is not safe for the future.
Cyprus's Parliamentary Environment Committee also talked about these worries. They discussed what could happen and if Cyprus is ready. Cyprus is taking action. They are testing the environment and watching for radiation. They have two stations to check the sea for radiation. They plan to add a third one. This is part of a plan called "Electra." This plan helps many government groups work together.
Akkuyu is in a place called Mersin. It was thought to be a safe location. However, OPOK points out that this area can have earthquakes. This makes it harder to know the risks. Also, the plant will use a lot of seawater to cool down. Releasing this warm water into the sea could harm marine life. Storing radioactive materials is also a long-term problem.
If an accident happens, the effects would be serious. Radioactive materials could travel by air and sea. This could harm people's health. It could also hurt important industries in Cyprus like fishing, farming, and tourism. The plant's closeness makes the danger feel more real. The first 24 hours after a big problem are very important. Cyprus and Turkey are still talking about this important project.