The Chairman of the Environmental Committee Haralambos Theopemptou expressed concern about the deterioration of the state of water-bobber of acrotiri, caused by an increase in the volume of fresh water and illegal waste reset. According to him, these factors can lead to the gradual degradation of the region’s ecosystem.
In turn, the head of the Department of Environment Theodolus Mesimeris confirmed that the facts of illegal emission of garbage are really recorded, and the violators are already fined 20,000 euros.
Deputies of the Ecological Committee visited Lake Macria, located east of Acrotiri Lake, and then held a discussion at the Acrotiri Ecological Center. The meeting was held with the participation of representatives of state bodies, municipalities, British military bases and environmental organizations.
Theopemptow noted that the following situation has developed:
Pollution from drains - rainwater and sewage fall into the lake. The growth of reeds - the reservoir is gradually filled with vegetation, displacing birds. A decrease in the Flamingo population - if thousands of birds were wintering here earlier, now there are no more than a hundred of them.
“Years are going on, but no decisive measures are taken,” said to theopemptow, expressing disappointment with the inaction of competent services.
In addition to pollution, the situation is negatively affected by active development in the area, which, according to Theopempto, can lead to the complete disappearance of water-bell grounds. He called for responsibility for pollution and immediate actions to restore the natural territory.
Mesimeris presented a four -stage plan for the protection of acrotiri, which includes:
Control over rainwater and building restriction. The ban on the discharge of wastewater into the lake. The introduction of strict laws against illegal activity. Systematic monitoring of the state of the ecosystem.
During the inspection, the Ecological Committee also visited the Vati treatment plants, where he found that wastewater polluting the polemoid reservoir.
“This is a clear example of what bad management and lack of control leads to,” said to theopemptou. In addition, pollution emanated from the landfill of solid waste was revealed.
Mesimeris added that in the area the illegal discharge of industrial and household liquid waste is fixed. He emphasized that the problem can be solved with strict observance of laws and imposing fines for violators.
Ecologists and the public require immediate actions to prevent an environmental disaster in acrotiri and other natural areas of Cyprus. Now the word is the authorities who have to realize effective measures to protect the unique nature of the region.
Source: Cyprus-Mail.com
