Newsroom
According to Pavlos Neophytos in this Sunday's Kathimerini, the development of the Akamas road network, crucial for the area's infrastructure, faces significant delays due to environmental concerns and ongoing investigations. The current tourist season and environmental protections, such as turtle nesting, have halted progress on road repairs in Phase A. However, the Council of Ministers is preparing to make final decisions on both Phase A and Phase B projects, with a briefing from the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, expected by the end of August.
Before the tourist season began, the construction site for Phase A was secured to ensure public safety. A Special Ecological Assessment, mandated by the Environment Department, will guide the final review of the project. The ministry has engaged with various stakeholders and is preparing a detailed plan for Cabinet approval later this month.
Regarding timelines, while the Ministry of Agriculture initially aimed to start Phase A rehabilitation by October, delays may occur due to pending expert studies on water management. This study, which addresses the free flow of water essential for turtle migration, is still being prepared by the Forestry Department. The ministry expects to announce revised timelines for both phases by September.
Phase A faces two main challenges: adapting suspended projects to the local environment and reassessing water infrastructure. Current structures, including round ducts and rectangular culverts, may need modifications based on forthcoming expert recommendations.
Phase B, which has yet to commence, is also under review. Discussions are ongoing about whether to complete all planned roads or only a portion, the number and type of infrastructure hubs, and alternative water solutions for restrooms. There have been debates on whether to install traditional pipelines or modern systems with watertight tanks.
In addition to project delays, a disciplinary investigation into the Phase A projects is nearing completion. The investigation, expected to be handed over to the Minister of Agriculture by the end of the month, follows criticism from parliamentary members who alleged a cover-up of prior administrative inquiries. The minister has denied these claims, stating that recent materials are still under review and cannot yet be disclosed.
The situation underscores the complex interplay between environmental regulations, infrastructure development, and governance challenges as Cyprus navigates significant road network improvements in the Akamas region.
