Cyprus installs escape ramps for animals in reservoirs

On 15 June, the Cyprus Department of Forests signed a contract to install 75 animal escape ramps at public reservoirs across the island. The project, valued at 17,000 euros, aims to prevent wild and stray animals from drowning after becoming trapped in reservoirs with steep or slippery banks. This initiative follows reports of frequent animal fatalities in such facilities, which raised significant public concern. In February 2025, Minister of Agriculture Maria Panayiotou ordered inspections of all water reservoirs. The minister also urged private reservoir owners to install similar safety structures and repair existing fencing. The Department of Forests will oversee the installation process. According to the contract terms, all 75 ramps are scheduled to be completed within two months.