Mazotos, Cyprus. Residents in Mazotos on Tuesday voiced continued opposition to a planned mobile desalination unit in the area, citing concerns over possible damage to protected marine habitats and impacts on public health. Community representatives said questions remain unanswered despite a meeting with government officials.
Residents raise environmental concerns
Mukthar George Pafitis said residents were informed during a meeting on Monday with Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou and officials from the environment, fisheries and water departments about government plans to install a mobile desalination unit on state land.
He said discussions became tense after questions were raised over the impact on Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows, which are protected under European habitat rules.
“The main concern is not to destroy the sea and the environment in our area, but also the health of the residents,” he said.
Questions over project details
Pafitis said residents also sought clarification on seabed pipe installation, marine discharge from the plant and arrangements after the end of the seven-year operating period.
He said “we have not yet been given clear answers or information” on what would happen when the project reaches the end of its term.
According to him, opposition to the project extends beyond Mazotos, with “most of the neighbouring communities” supporting the objections.
Legal action and ministry response
Pafitis also confirmed that the community council has filed legal action seeking suspension of the project, with a court hearing scheduled for June 29.
The agriculture ministry said officials had provided “detailed explanations about the location of the project, the environmental assessments carried out and the marine environment protection measures that have been put in place”.
The ministry added that the climate at the meeting did not allow for constructive dialogue or the full presentation of technical information.