Government plans for quarry expansion in Pyrga spark local concern

The Cypriot government is considering expanding quarry operations in the Pyrga area, a move that has met with local opposition due to environmental concerns and proximity to residential zones. MP Andreas Pasiourtides of AKEL has formally questioned the Agriculture Ministry regarding the proposal's impact on the Natura 2000 protected network. Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou stated that rising demand for construction materials makes expansion necessary, as current licensed reserves are expected to be exhausted within seven to eight years. Operated by Skyra Lima, the quarry has been active since 1960 and remains a vital supplier for the Larnaca and Nicosia districts. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades noted that annual sales reached 1.3 million tonnes in 2024 and 1.4 million tonnes in 2025, showing a consistent seven percent annual increase in demand. While the government emphasizes the strategic necessity for infrastructure growth, residents and critics argue that environmental assessments provided to the public have been insufficient. The government maintains that geological surveys support the continued operation and potential extension of the site.