Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus agriculture ministry director general Andreas Gregoriou said water cuts could be avoided if district government organisations (EOAs) manage supplies effectively despite a planned 10% reduction in water flow to EOA networks.
10% reduction to EOA networks
Gregoriou told the Cyprus News Agency that the government’s decision concerns a 10% reduction in water flow to EOA networks, rather than immediate interruptions to supply.
“If managed properly by the EOA, people will not be deprived of water and perhaps cuts will not need to be made,” he said.
The EOAs have been asked to take measures to curb consumption, while the ministry prepares public information campaigns aimed at encouraging water conservation.
Gregoriou said meetings have already begun to determine how the 10% reduction will be implemented and how networks will be managed to minimise the impact on consumers.
Dhekelia desalination maintenance to affect supply
Gregoriou also addressed an ongoing reduction in water supply linked to desalination units, saying it was not due to a production issue.
He said one of the largest desalination units in Dhekelia will be shut down for three days as part of scheduled works.
The water development department said on Monday that residents in Larnaca, Nicosia and Famagusta from Tuesday to Thursday will experience a cut due to scheduled maintenance at the Dhekelia desalination plant.
Outlook for 2026 supply and demand
Looking ahead to 2026, Gregoriou said around 104 million cubic metres of water are expected to be made available for water supply, roughly matching actual consumption in 2024.
He added that demand is projected to rise by around 4 to 5 per cent annually.
How are you planning to reduce water use during the period of reduced supply?