Nicosia, Cyprus. Recent rainfall has added more than two million cubic metres of water to Cyprus’ reservoirs, providing limited short-term relief as overall reserves remain significantly below levels recorded at the same time last year, the agriculture ministry said.
Reservoir levels and system pressure
Speaking on CyBC radio on Monday, ministerial permanent secretary Andreas Grigoriou said inflows had marginally strengthened dam levels, but total reserves stand at roughly 25 per cent of those recorded during the corresponding period last year.
Pressure remains concentrated within the southern conveyor system, which includes key reservoirs such as the Kouris, Yermasogeia and Kalavasos dam.
Reservoir levels are estimated at around 22.7 per cent of total capacity, equivalent to approximately 63 million cubic metres.
Authorities attributed ongoing pressure on the system to reduced rainfall and sustained demand.
Desalination expansion plans
Plans are in progress to expand desalination capacity, with the aim of operating more than nine units by 2027.
The increase is expected to raise drinking water supply by approximately 34 per cent.
Grigoriou said the strategy is intended to ensure a more stable water supply in the coming years.
Current supply mix and disruptions
Desalination already accounts for more than 70 per cent of domestic water supply in Cyprus, while over 85 per cent of treated wastewater is reused, mainly for irrigation.
Operational issues at desalination units have affected supply in Larnaca, where rotational water cuts have been implemented.
How do you think the planned expansion of desalination units will affect water cuts in your area?
