Five villages living off bottled water as borehole runs dry

FIVE LIMASSOL villages were still living off bottled water yesterday, after it was discovered that their water supply had become contaminated.

The villages of Yerasa, Paramytha, Spitali, Palodia and Apsiou were receiving water from a borehole in Ayia Paraskevi until Friday, when tests showed the supply had high levels of salinity and was unsuitable for human consumption.

Residents had been complaining about the water, which in some cases was reported as flowing yellow. One possible explanation for the decline is that the borehole had run dry and that mud had made its way into the tanks.

A second and more alarming possibility is that the drain on the groundwater supply had hit the shoreline, resulting in the borehole’s salinification. Seawater seeping into underground reserves is a common problem for Cyprus’ boreholes.

Drilling for water has been practised for years in Cyprus, whether with a license or illegally. Experts believe that this measure has seriously affected groundwater reserves, many of which are either completely depleted or have been rendered unusable by seawater infiltration.

The Ayia Paraskevi borehole is presently being cleaned, and as a temporary solution authorities are looking into tapping into other boreholes, including an older borehole at Yerasa village.

“Lab tests indicate that the water from Yerasa borehole is suitable for human consumption, if mixed with the water from Ayia Paraskevi borehole,” said Charalambos Zorbas, Palodia community leader.

A second borehole at Ayia Paraskevi has also been identified, and an analysis by a private chemist has shown the water is of potable quality.

Before this water can be used, however, Limassol’s District Administrator must give her approval, which will only be granted after the State Lab has confirmed the water’s safety. State Lab results are expected to be released in the coming days.

Meanwhile, village residents will have to visit their community centres, where bottled water is handed out.

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