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Proposal to Increase Shelters in Cyprus - Incentives Considered by the Ministry of Interior

Published March 6, 2026, 14:12
Proposal to Increase Shelters in Cyprus - Incentives Considered by the Ministry of Interior

The Council of Ministers is expected to consider a proposal to increase shelters across Cyprus. The proposal, which has been in development for months, aims to cover 45% of the population. A key element of the proposal is the requirement for new apartment buildings to allocate their basement space as shelters, with an additional building factor as an incentive. Compulsory requisition of spaces is not considered effective. An inspection of existing shelters has already begun by 90 people, following an initial sample check deemed insufficient. The Minister of Interior has expressed dissatisfaction with the situation and is seeking improvements. In the event of an alarm, the public is urged not to head to shelters immediately to avoid congestion on the roads, but to follow the instructions of the Ministry of Interior and notifications via 112. Schools and hospitals have been informed of safety protocols. Public information will be disseminated via SMS, sirens, bells, and door-to-door information. Tourists will be informed through their hotels. There are technical difficulties with one provider covering 10% of the market and issues with prepaid card holders, who account for 25% of subscribers. Messages will be sent in the language declared to the provider.