THE CYPRUS Consumers Association (KEK) of has criticised the ministry of Agriculture’s management of water shortages in Nicosia during the August 15 holiday.
KEK president, Petros Markou told the Cyprus Mail yesterday “this story must end – we are pressing for more desalination plants to satisfy the needs of consumers. We accept that there are some procedural problems with increasing the supply, but there is no excuse for prolongation”
Markou added: “We have had assurances from the Ministry of Agriculture that steps are being taken to provide more water to consumers. I know that they are trying their best, but many further things can be done to expedite the provision of more water.”
Asked what should be done to improve the water situation, he said “The establishment of an independent water authority for the management of Cyprus’ water is a must.”
On the August 15 there were further cuts in the water supply to certain districts in Nicosia. However, following complaints about shortages during the holiday weekend, the water board increased the hours of availability on the 16h and 17.
Nicos Zambakides, Head of the Nicosia Water Board, explained “the government did not give us more on the 15th. There was a slight reduction compared to normal, but it was sufficient and would not affect most customers. If there is water available, then we give it to the consumers.”
Lucas Aristodemou, President of the Cyprus Consumers Union and Quality of Life, was also critical of the Ministry of Agriculture’s handling of water shortages. Asked about the cuts on the 15th, he said “We don’t agree that water cuts are a necessity. We believe that irresponsible government departments have not planned properly. Better planning is especially important from a public health point of view.”
He explained that, not only was water stoppage an inconvenience, but could present a health risk to consumers. Firstly consumers are required to store water in roof tanks in order to have a ready supply when there is a cut. This stationary water can be a breeding ground for bugs. He adds that with new diseases and viruses emerging, such as H1N1, it is the responsibility of the authorities to be more prepared. “It is not a professional opinion to hope for the best. Measures should be taken to prepare.”
Indeed plans are underway to enhance the water supply in the coming years. Sophocles Aletraris. President of the Water Development Department, is optimistic that within two years, all domestic water requirements will be met by proposed desalination plants. “Just 15 days ago we signed an agreement to build a plant in Episkopi, which will provide an extra 40,000 litres of water when it is completed in two years. We are also accepting tenders for a second plant in Vassiliko.”
The extension of the Paphos district’s mobile desalination plant’s capacity, from 20000 to 30000 litres will also help meet the demand. “When this is completed, hopefully in May 2010, this will provide potable water for 20 communities between Bay Area and Koukilia Area”.
He explained that the current policy on water restriction, which is between 10 and 15 per cent for domestic use and even more limited for farmers is necessary to meet the targets to satisfy all domestic needs in 2010.
Zambakides was also optimistic that the water restrictions would be relaxed in early 2010. He sought to reassure customers about the health risk posed by any water shortage “There is no health risk posed by shortages. Changes in colour could be the result of work on the pipes, or it may be that the roof tank needs cleaning. This should be done every two years.” He added: “We have an agreement with a private lab to test water and ensure that it is at its best”.
