Athens, Greece – Greece has placed the greater Athens area and the islands of Patmos and Leros under a water emergency, a measure designed to expedite critical infrastructure projects and confront the escalating threat of chronic drought. The environment ministry announced the decision late Friday, November 29, highlighting a significant annual reduction in Athens’ water reserves, estimated at approximately 250 million cubic meters since 2022.
Urgent Action to Combat Declining Water Reserves
A ministry source informed the state agency ANA that this emergency declaration “prioritizes the implementation of critical infrastructure projects.” While no immediate restrictions on consumer consumption have been imposed, the move underscores the urgency of the situation.
According to the Athens water supply and sewerage company (EYDAP), Greece has experienced a notable decrease in annual rainfall, approximately 25 percent over the past three years. Concurrently, evaporation rates have risen by 15 percent, and water consumption has increased by around six percent.
Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou stated on Skai TV on Friday that the water reserves for the greater Athens area currently stand at approximately 400 million cubic meters, with an annual consumption of about 250 million cubic meters. “There is no more room to postpone difficult decisions,” the minister emphasized, adding that “in areas where water consumption increases significantly due to tourism, greater attention and planning are needed to avoid situations in the summer that cannot be dealt with.”
Historical Drought Levels and Future Investments
Ministry sources indicate that scientific studies suggest Greece is currently enduring a period of persistent drought comparable only to a previous crisis that occurred between 1988 and 1994. This alarming trend has prompted the government to take proactive measures.
Last month, the Greek government unveiled plans for a substantial investment of 2.5 billion euros ($2.9 billion) in water infrastructure projects over the next decade. This comprehensive plan includes several key initiatives:
- Diversion of River Achelous Tributaries: A 500-million-euro project to divert two tributaries of the River Achelous in western Greece, slated for completion by 2029.
- Drilling and Desalination Projects: Implementation of new drilling operations and desalination facilities to secure additional water sources.
Furthermore, the environment ministry reported that 150 other projects, collectively valued at over 320 million euros, are currently underway across more than 40 islands, demonstrating a broad commitment to improving water security nationwide.
The declaration of a water emergency signals a critical juncture for Greece as it grapples with the long-term implications of climate change and increasing demand for water resources. The government’s strategic investments and rapid response measures aim to mitigate the impact of drought and ensure sustainable water management for its citizens and vital tourism sector.
Source: AFP
