Environmentalists demand intervention: illegal wastewater discharge recorded in the Gemikonağı (Lefke) area

The environmental organization Lefke Çevre ve Ekoloji Derneği (Lefke Association for Environment and Ecology) has called on the authorities of Northern Cyprus to immediately intervene in the situation in the Gemikonağı area. According to the organization, untreated wastewater has been illegally discharged into the local river and surrounding areas, causing significant pollution and an unpleasant odor.

Local residents have repeatedly complained about the problem, stating that wastewater flows directly into natural waterways through plastic pipes without any filtration. Environmentalists confirmed these reports after inspecting the area and stated that the situation poses a serious threat not only to the environment but also to public health.

Particular concern is raised by the proximity of the polluted area to residential zones and schools. According to representatives of the organization, the unpleasant odor is noticeable near educational institutions, and the quality of water and soil in the area may be irreversibly damaged.

The head of the association, Münevver Ebedi, emphasized that this is not an isolated incident but a systemic problem related to insufficient control by local authorities and a lack of proper water treatment infrastructure. She called on the Department of Ecology and the Lefke Municipality to inspect all sewage systems, install treatment facilities, and hold accountable those responsible for the illegal discharge.

The organization also urged local residents to document cases of pollution and submit complaints to official authorities. The authorities have not yet provided an official plan of action to address the consequences and prevent repeated incidents.