Mavrokolympos Dam must be emptied to find solution

The Department of Water Development has explored alternative ways to repair damage to the Mavrokolympos Dam, but a feasible solution remains elusive due to the unique construction and characteristics of the pipeline, Andreas Gregoriou, Director-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, told CNA. He stated that the dam will be completely emptied before any intervention to address the issue.

Gregoriou explained that following an update from the Water Development Department on yesterday's efforts to resolve the water leakage at the Mavrokolympos Dam, the cause was identified as wear and tear and a failure in the dam's discharge pipe's ventilation pipe.

He added that yesterday, engineers considered various alternative approaches and intervention methods to repair the damaged pipe. However, he noted, "It appears that no feasible solution exists due to the construction characteristics, which preclude any intervention."

Despite these challenges, Gregoriou emphasized that efforts will continue today to explore potential solutions. If no viable options are found, the dam will be completely emptied in the coming days, allowing for necessary repairs. He expressed optimism that upcoming rainfall will replenish the dam's water levels.