Northern Pitsilia on Life Support – Request for Modern Dam with 6 Million Cubic Meter Capacity

Communities in northern Pitsilia are facing severe water scarcity issues, as winter rainfall is lost to the sea due to the lack of adequate water storage infrastructure. The community leader of Alona, Michalis Nikiforou, has sent a letter to the Minister of Agriculture requesting the construction of a modern dam with a capacity of six million cubic meters in the Gefyri area of Panagia. This dam would allow for water conservation and prevent its loss, ensuring sufficient water supply for the needs of the communities. Mr. Nikiforou explained that the water ends up in a small dam in the occupied village of Masari and, when it overflows, is lost to the sea. This happens while the communities in the area face water restrictions during the summer. This situation has led to a general deterioration of life in the countryside, with farmers struggling with uncertainty. The community leader warned of dynamic mobilizations, emphasizing that the 11 communities of northern Pitsilia are in a critical situation. The lack of water threatens the survival of agriculture and the quality of life of residents. The community leaders of the area are awaiting an invitation from the Ministry of Agriculture to be informed about the government's plans to address the problem. The construction of a modern dam is considered by the residents to be a necessary condition for ensuring the sustainability of the area and avoiding the desertification of the countryside. Water scarcity is a chronic problem that is worsening with climate change and increasing demand.