The Cyprus Environmental Movement has called for the immediate suspension of projects it says are harming the Akamas peninsula, urging authorities to investigate alleged violations and hold those responsible accountable.
In a statement, the group said findings by the Audit Office pointed to serious environmental damage, including extensive excavations and departures from approved plans that it claims have caused irreversible harm to sensitive ecosystems.
Concerns over compliance
According to the organisation, audit findings identified significant deviations involving:
- hydraulic infrastructure;
- road designs and cross-sections;
- excessive excavation works.
The group said many of these interventions were not covered by the original environmental assessment process.
It added that 17 of 19 supplementary conditions imposed after the project began remain unfulfilled.
Calls for accountability
The organisation also alleged that unauthorised accommodation facilities, structures and access roads near the Lara-Toxeftra protected marine area remain in place.
It further raised concerns over licensing procedures, citing a complaint reportedly submitted to the Anti-Corruption Authority regarding a restaurant in Agios Georgios Peyias.
The group argued that some infrastructure projects costing millions either remained incomplete or were implemented only partially, while public funds were spent on works that were later removed.
Demands to government
The Environmental Movement is calling for:
- a full investigation into alleged violations;
- accountability for those responsible;
- an immediate halt to environmentally damaging works;
- strict compliance with Natura 2000 protection rules;
- corrective measures that prioritise environmental restoration and the public interest.
The organisation said the government's response should focus on protecting Akamas through projects that respect the area's ecological value rather than further degrading it.
Source: CNA
