Ninety-three new projects are set to combat water scarcity in Cyprus, as part of a €1.17 billion national investment plan. These projects include new reservoirs, desalination units, smart water meters, and infrastructure upgrades to ensure efficient water management and urban water security.
What are the key initiatives in the €1.17 billion national investment plan to combat water shortage?
The national investment plan includes:
– 93 projects to enhance water supply, drainage, reclaimed water, and irrigation.
– 33 critical projects with a 2029 completion timeline.
– Infrastructure projects for urban water security like new reservoirs and desalination units.
– Smart water meters and replacement of aging infrastructure to reduce water wastage.
– Photovoltaic systems at water facilities to cut costs and carbon footprint.
Addressing the Water Crisis
The prospect of a water shortage has led to proactive measures, with a fresh desalination unit being just one of many new undertakings. A comprehensive, multi-faceted national investment plan for water management has been unveiled, earmarking a substantial budget of €1.17 billion. This plan includes a total of 93 projects designed to ensure that the water needs of the nation are met, even in the face of potential scarcity.
Among these projects, 33 have been identified as critical and are currently in progress. These crucial ventures span across water supply enhancements, the drainage of effluents, reclaimed water initiatives, and extensive irrigation works. The completion timeline for these priority projects is set for 2029, underscoring a commitment to long-term sustainability.
Infrastructure and Security Enhancement
The remaining 60 projects are in the planning stages, with anticipated start dates spreading from 2025 to 2030. These projects are not just about increasing water stockpiles; they are also about securing water in urban regions and beyond. It’s not only about supplying more water but ensuring that the water supply systems are resilient and capable of meeting future demands.
The national investment plan is a pioneering strategy that stems from proposals by the water development department and has received green lights from the cabinet. Oversight of this ambitious plan falls to the ministry of agriculture, ensuring that the progress of each initiative aligns with the overarching goals.
Urban Water Security Initiatives
For urban centers like Nicosia, the plan outlines specific projects to augment the drinking water supply, such as the Vasilikos-Nicosia water project and the new Teresfanou pumping station. Famagusta’s water security will be fortified through projects like the “Kokkinokremmos” and initiatives to reduce water loss due to aging pipelines.
Larnaca’s water security will see a significant boost with the establishment of a new water reservoir in Klavdia, boasting a capacity of 10,000 m³ and slated for completion by 2026. This project represents a vital step in ensuring adequate water resources for the area’s residents.
Embracing Technology and Sustainability
The integration of smart water meters across municipalities is on the agenda, allowing for better monitoring and regulation of water usage. Limassol is set to embark on an infrastructure replacement project to address water wastage through leakages, a move that will conserve precious resources.
Further to these developments, plans are afoot to construct a new desalination unit in Moni, Limassol, which will serve as an additional source of potable water. In tandem with infrastructural upgrades, there is a push to upgrade water treatment facilities to adhere to EU water quality standards.
Another sustainable initiative in the pipeline includes installing photovoltaic systems at water treatment and pumping stations. This initiative not only aims to cut costs but also to reduce the carbon footprint of water management operations by harnessing solar energy.
What are the key initiatives in the €1.17 billion national investment plan to combat water shortage?
The national investment plan includes:
– 93 projects to enhance water supply, drainage, reclaimed water, and irrigation.
– 33 critical projects with a 2029 completion timeline.
– Infrastructure projects for urban water security like new reservoirs and desalination units.
– Smart water meters and replacement of aging infrastructure to reduce water wastage.
– Photovoltaic systems at water facilities to cut costs and carbon footprint.
How many critical projects are currently in progress as part of the plan?
There are 33 critical projects currently in progress as part of the plan, with a completion timeline set for 2029.
What initiatives are being implemented to enhance urban water security in specific regions?
Specific initiatives to enhance urban water security include projects like the Vasilikos-Nicosia water project and the new Teresfanou pumping station in Nicosia, the “Kokkinokremmos” project in Famagusta, and the new water reservoir in Klavdia, Larnaca.
How is technology being integrated into the plan to combat water shortage?
Technology is being integrated through the installation of smart water meters for better monitoring and regulation of water usage, infrastructure replacement projects to address water wastage through leakages, the construction of a new desalination unit in Limassol, and the installation of photovoltaic systems at water treatment and pumping stations for sustainability.
