A significant flood control initiative in Larnaca's Kamares district is making substantial progress, aiming to provide a lasting solution to recurrent flooding issues. This ambitious project, scheduled for completion by 2027, is a collaborative undertaking involving the Larnaca district government, the Larnaca Sewerage Board, and the municipalities of Larnaca and Aradippou. It is expected to considerably reduce flood risks for thousands of local residents.
The impetus for this vital infrastructure development arose from the severe floods experienced in late 2014, which caused extensive damage to properties in the Kamares area. This event highlighted the urgent necessity for effective flood management systems. The head of the Larnaca district government, Angelos Hadjicharalambous, has emphasised the project's critical importance, stating that it will largely resolve the area’s persistent flooding problems. However, he also cautioned that while significant improvements are being made, the unpredictable nature of extreme weather events means absolute certainty against future floods cannot be guaranteed.
Currently, the project involves a comprehensive refurbishment of the existing Kamares flood control channel. This includes widening and deepening the main conduit to accommodate larger water volumes. Additionally, adjacent rainwater networks are being integrated to ensure surface runoff from a wider area can be efficiently diverted away from residential zones, even during intense rainfall.
Crucial upstream works are presently underway, particularly along Dryadon Street. These efforts involve demolishing an old concrete channel and constructing a new, open rectangular concrete channel designed for improved water flow. Existing earthen channels within the Kalo Chorio river basin are also being carefully modified to align with the new infrastructure. These measures are intended to expedite the drainage of substantial water volumes, thereby mitigating the threat of flash floods.
The estimated cost for this comprehensive project is approximately €7 million. Future plans include a subsequent phase for the Vergina area, a growing district within Aradippou that also faces considerable flood vulnerability. The Larnaca district authorities are prioritising the acquisition of central government funding for this expansion, demonstrating their commitment to a holistic flood defence strategy. The accelerated pace of current construction suggests the project might conclude before its 2027 deadline, offering much-needed security to residents who have long been affected by severe flooding.