Residents of Mazotos protest against the installation of a mobile desalination plant

On Saturday, a protest took place in the community of Mazotos against the authorities’ decision to install a mobile seawater desalination unit in the area. The protest was organized by the Mazotos Community Council.

Participants of the rally held placards reading:

“We demand protection of the environment,”

“No studies and consultations — no arbitrariness,”

“Are we second-class citizens?”

Community leader Georgios Dimitriou Pafitis stated that the council has an independent environmental study, according to which the installation of a desalination plant in this area is not recommended due to the presence of protected natural habitats, including Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows.

According to him, the authorities are making “hasty and unfounded decisions,” attempting to bypass environmental and urban planning procedures.

The Mazotos Community Council demands:

• the immediate withdrawal or suspension of the decision to place the facility;
• a full and independent environmental impact assessment;
• consideration of alternative locations;
• compliance with national and European legislation;
• protection of the region’s natural ecosystems.

At the same time, community representatives emphasize that they recognize the seriousness of the water crisis but consider it unacceptable to solve the problem at the expense of the environment and without dialogue with local residents.

The community leader reported that on Saturday, January 31, a meeting will take place in Mazotos with the participation of the Ministers of Interior and Agriculture. Residents of Mazotos and neighboring Alaminos are urged to attend the meeting to receive official explanations.