Paphos Drought: Panayiotou Assurances to Farmers

Farmers in Paphos are facing a severe drought, with banana growers and plantation owners in Chloraka and Peyia reporting water shortages. The Minister of Agriculture has pledged to take measures to resolve the issue during a meeting with stakeholders.

Ms. Panayiotou stated that increased water quantities will be provided for July and August, without exceeding the total allocated amount. Furthermore, there will be cooperation with banana growers to ensure they do not exceed 12,000 cubic meters of water per decare. Supply will be cut off in case of exceeding the limit.

A gradual improvement of the irrigation system is expected from 2026. The President of Banana Producers, M. Pegeiotis, expressed satisfaction with the decisions.

Efforts to operate mobile desalination units are ongoing, while there is a delay in the arrival of desalination units from the United Arab Emirates, which are now expected at the end of July in Limassol and Paphos.