Cyprus MPs Criticize Inadequate Response to Marine Pollution in Limassol Amid Hundreds of Incidents
Members of Cyprus' parliament Environment Committee strongly criticized the handling of marine pollution off Limassol, with DISY MP Michalis Kounounis highlighting approximately 300 recorded pollution incidents and condemning minimal fines of €3,000 for offenders. MPs demanded detailed disclosures on pollution sources and accountability, expressing frustration over ongoing contamination affecting the coastline, including visible foam and increased microbial contamination.
During the session, officials presented a detailed mapping of pollution sources, categorizing them into land-based and vessel-related origins. The Deputy Ministry of Shipping highlighted annual inspections of around 230 coastal vessels, noting no violations this year, and indicated the difficulty in monitoring smaller recreational boats. The Environment Department reported enhanced water sampling efforts, increasing monitoring frequency specifically for Limassol, and ongoing digital mapping of outflow points to combat illegal discharges.
Committee chair Linos Papagiannis acknowledged systemic shortcomings and emphasized the need for immediate, coordinated action among authorities. MPs called for comprehensive risk assessments, stronger enforcement, and transparency to restore the health of Limassol's marine environment and protect its coastal waters effectively.
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