Residents of Sia protest against quarry expansion

On Sunday, October 25, 2026, residents of the village of Sia held a peaceful protest at the entrance of the local quarry to voice their firm opposition to planned site expansions. Participants, including families with children, carried signs calling for a greener environment and demanded an immediate stop to industrial encroachment, which they view as a threat to their health, safety, and quality of life. The community emphasizes that the current facility, located just 200–300 meters from residential areas, causes significant disturbance.

Sia Community Council President Melina Georgiou stated that the community has reached a limit of tolerance and is now demanding a binding schedule for the gradual phasing out of mining operations. Concerns regarding the impact on Xylias Mountain were previously discussed at a parliamentary environment committee meeting in late September. Residents argue that the quarry is the only one in the region visible from the entire village and that current activities violate prior agreements.

Community leaders are currently arranging a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture, who has expressed interest in visiting the site to discuss the residents' grievances and evaluate the future of the quarrying operations.