The government in Cyprus has ordered a 10% cut in water flow to supply organizations. This is to help with the island's water shortage. However, people in Larnaca, Nicosia, and Famagusta are worried. A large water plant is also temporarily stopped for repairs. This makes people more concerned.
The Ministry of Agriculture wants to reduce water use. This is because of dry weather and expected higher demand. Demand is predicted to rise by 4% to 5% each year. Andreas Gregoriou from the Ministry said this does not mean people will have no water. He explained that water companies need to manage water well. If they do this, everyone will still get water. The government wants to keep water flowing, but with less pressure.
A desalination plant in Dhekelia is closed for maintenance. This will last from Tuesday to Thursday. This closure is happening at the same time as the water cuts. Therefore, people in the area are more worried. Officials are discussing how to manage the 10% reduction. They want to make sure households are not badly affected.
The Ministry of Agriculture is helping hotels get their own desalination plants. This is to ensure water for tourists. A grant of €3 million will be approved in March 2025. Hotels can get money for plants that can make up to 1,500 cubic meters of water daily. The ministry is also making it faster to get permission for these plants.
By 2026, Cyprus expects to have 104 million cubic meters of water. This should match the water used in 2024. However, demand is still growing. The government will also start public campaigns. These campaigns will teach people how to save water. Saving water is important for everyone on the island.