Audit office report reveals systemic failures in Akamas National Forest Park construction

The Audit Office of Cyprus has submitted a special report to the Attorney General regarding construction projects at the Akamas National Forest Park, alleging severe systemic failures, environmental damage, and financial waste. Auditor General Andreas Papaconstantinou highlighted that the environmental assessment for the area was conducted without predefined conservation goals, leading to irreparable damage and the improper implementation of legal requirements. Projects, including road networks and hydraulic works, were found to have caused unauthorized clearing of vegetation and the installation of structures that obstruct the habitat of the protected European eel.

The findings center on Phase A of the road network project, which had a contract value of €6.295 million. Records indicate that while 94% of the contract time had elapsed by December 11, 2023, when work was suspended, only 17.67% of the project had been completed. Furthermore, 17 out of 19 environmental conditions set in March 2024 remain unfulfilled. While the Department of Forests and the Environment Department have reportedly rejected the report's conclusions, the Attorney General is now tasked with evaluating potential criminal or institutional liabilities. Meanwhile, the European Commission has initiated legal action against the Republic of Cyprus at the European Court of Justice for failing to comply with the habitats directive.