Mazotos demands the suspension of the mobile desalination plant project

The Mazotos Community Council has demanded the immediate withdrawal or suspension of the decision to establish a mobile water desalination plant in the community area.

In an official statement, the council refers to a scientific study in its possession, according to which priority natural habitats protected under the European Habitats Directive are located in the coastal zone of Mazotos. These include, in particular, Posidonia oceanica meadows and reefs.

It is noted that the placement of desalination facilities in close proximity to such ecosystems poses a serious risk of irreversible damage to the marine environment.

“Given the need to protect marine ecology and comply with European and national legislation, the Mazotos area is not suitable for the installation of desalination facilities under the current conditions,” the statement says.

On this matter, the Community Council has sent official letters to the President of the Republic, the Ministers of Interior and Agriculture, the Chairman of the Larnaca Regional Self-Government Organization, parliamentary parties, and the Larnaca District Commissioner.

The council also demands:

• the conduct of a full and independent environmental impact assessment;
• a substantiated analysis of alternative solutions and locations;
• clarifications regarding compliance with procedures stipulated by national and European legislation.