Paphos Municipality cracks down on unauthorized port practices

Under the leadership of the Paphos Municipality, various agencies responsible for the operation and management of the Paphos port have joined forces to tackle illegal activities and improve the services provided to visitors and professionals. The initiative also aims to enhance the area's aesthetics and prevent sea pollution.

During a meeting held earlier this week at the Paphos Municipal Hall, chaired by Paphos Mayor Phaedon Phaedonos, representatives from the Cyprus Ports Authority, the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, the Paphos District Administration, the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, the Department of Environment, and the Port and Marine Police discussed various issues plaguing the port. Key concerns included illegal solicitation of customers, non-compliance with seating permits for restaurants and cafes, the unauthorized placement of signs and other items, and the discharge of waste into the sea by vessels.

The participants agreed on the need for strict, continuous measures with zero tolerance towards illegal activities to effectively upgrade the port’s order, organization, and functionality. Measures will include daily inspections by officials from the Paphos Municipality, the Cyprus Ports Authority, and the Port and Marine Police to ensure compliance with licensing terms regarding the seating arrangements of establishments and the placement of advertising structures and equipment.

In cases of non-compliance, the Municipality will issue citations and confiscate offending items.

Further, daily inspections will be conducted to crack down on illegal solicitation of customers, resolve longstanding issues with the advertising and ticket sales for cruise boats, and implement regulations to address noise and public health concerns. These efforts will ensure pedestrian safety and easy access to public spaces. Continuous monitoring will be enforced to prevent the discharge of waste by vessels into the port and the surrounding sea area, involving a coordinated effort by the relevant services.

A tender process will also be initiated to secure private sector services for continuous surveillance of the coastal area of Paphos to prevent such incidents.

To address daily issues promptly, a dedicated team has been appointed. Citizens are encouraged to report illegal activities or other urgent matters by contacting the following: Paphos Municipality at 96910661, Cyprus Ports Authority at 26946840, and Port and Marine Police at 26806601 or 99106389.

[Information sourced from CNA]