Dialogos

Cyprus to Remove 200 Unsuitable Shelters and Upgrade Civil Protection

Published March 9, 2026, 12:02
Cyprus to Remove 200 Unsuitable Shelters and Upgrade Civil Protection

Legislation is being promoted to strengthen civil protection in Cyprus, with the creation of a national coordinator position. Until the law is passed, a temporary coordinator will be appointed, said the Minister of Interior, Konstantinos Ioannou. The inspection of approximately 99% of the 2,480 shelters recorded has been completed, resulting in the removal of about 200 unsuitable shelters and the finding that 230 are not available to the public. The shelter system, which has been operating since 1999, currently covers 40-45% of the population. The Minister pointed out the understaffing of the Civil Defense service, with approximately 30-35 officials instead of the 42 planned positions, and the need for reorganization. The citizen warning system will continue to operate temporarily via SMS until the activation of 112 in June, despite its limitations. In the event of a threat from missiles or drones, Civil Defense is immediately informed and activates available warning systems.