Authorities address chronic marine pollution in Limassol

Persistent marine pollution in the Gulf of Limassol has sparked urgent discussions among government agencies and local authorities. Throughout the summer, swimmers have reported foam, unpleasant odors, and various waste items, including sewage, at popular coastal locations like Armonia beach in Ayios Tychonas. Citizens and political representatives, such as MP Giorgos Karaiskakis, have expressed severe concern, calling for immediate water sampling and laboratory analysis to identify the source of the contamination.

On August 27, Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis chaired a meeting in Limassol with municipal leaders, including Mayors Yiannis Armeftis and Kyriakos Xydias, and representatives from the Environment and Fisheries Departments. While officials maintained that Cypriot waters are generally clean, they acknowledged that multiple sources—including pleasure craft, the harbor, and a malfunctioning sewage treatment plant in Moni—are suspected contributors. To mitigate future incidents, authorities have pledged to intensify inspections and integrate the upcoming Coast Guard and drone surveillance to monitor the coastline more effectively.

This issue has been an ongoing concern for several years, with local leaders demanding clearer institutional responsibilities. The Parliament's Environment Committee is scheduled to discuss these reports and potential policy changes during its session starting on September 9.