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Authorities are taking legal action against a landowner who began dumping soil on an agricultural plot near the sensitive Sea Caves area, officials said Friday.
The work, described as earthmoving to prepare the land for farming, sparked concern from environmental groups because the site is home to protected wildlife, including a seal species. Although the plot is outside the official Natura-protected zone, the Department of Environment and the Paphos District Administration have been monitoring the site closely and warned the owner that legal steps would follow if the work continued.
Dr. Christodoulos Mesimeris, Director of the Department of Environment, said all relevant authorities, including the Forestry Department, Game and Fauna Service, and Akamas Municipality, have been informed. “Every possible effort must be made to prevent environmental impacts in this sensitive area,” he said.
About four months ago, the Akamas Municipality intervened after spotting the landfilling. The municipal engineer, along with environmental and police representatives, went to the site and ordered the landowner to stop, which she did immediately. Since then, no further work has been reported.
Mayor Marinos Lamprou said the landowner explained she was preparing the plot for cultivation and questioned why she could not do so, noting that it is outside the Natura zone. Authorities emphasized that while agricultural use is permitted, any work in environmentally sensitive areas must be closely monitored to avoid harm to wildlife and the ecosystem.
