Cypriot authorities have launched an investigation after two vehicles remained stranded for a second day in the Larnaca Salt Lake, a natural area that is part of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas and is one of the island's most vulnerable ecosystems.
The cars found themselves deep in the salt marsh, surrounded by mud and shallow water. According to the Department of Environmental Conservation, such incidents can harm the ecosystem and disrupt migratory birds wintering in the area.
It is reported that one of the cars was racing on the salt lake, despite existing environmental restrictions. Police said the first vehicle drove into the lake and the second vehicle tried to pull it out, but both ended up getting stuck.
“According to our information, one car entered first, the other tried to pull it out - and both got stuck,” police said.
The situation is not easy, and you may need special equipment to get them out. Representatives from the Department of Environmental Protection confirmed that they are preparing a formal report to the police in accordance with the law. The document will include proposals for fines, penalties and further actions.
The municipality of Larnaca also reminded that the lake is a protected site, and parking or traffic on its territory is strictly prohibited.
“We will prepare an official statement,” municipality representatives said. “Parking is prohibited here, the territory is part of the Natura 2000 network. We have already contacted the relevant services.”
Earlier this year, environmentalists warned that cars and pedestrians crossing the salt marsh could destroy the eggs and nests of birds that live on the exposed surface. In addition, human presence disrupts the life cycle of small invertebrates, the main source of food for flamingos and other bird species. These organisms exist as cysts on the soil surface and “come to life” after winter rains.
The Larnaca Salt Lake, located close to the city center and airport, is considered one of the most recognizable natural symbols of Cyprus and an important link in the bird migration routes between Europe and Africa. In winter it fills with water, and in summer it dries out, becoming covered with a thin shiny layer of salt.
Now the authorities are figuring out exactly how the cars were able to get into the lake and why the protective barriers did not prevent entry. The drivers are already giving statements to the police, and an official statement from the municipality is expected once the operation to recover the cars begins.
Source: cyprus-mail.com
