Filenews 8 September 2025 - by Angelos Nikolaou
With practical interventions and documented strategic moves, the Republic of Cyprus is moving decisively towards addressing the problem of water losses and waste in the water supply networks. At a time when the climate crisis, water scarcity and the need for rational management of water resources require immediate actions, the Water Development Department (TAY), in collaboration with the Provincial Local Government Organizations (EDAs) and the communities, is activating a series of actions and studies aimed at reducing water losses and improving the existing infrastructure.
Water losses remain one of the biggest "invisible" problems in the water supply sector, with serious impacts on the environment, the economy and the sustainability of water resources. The current initiative, in addition to strict compliance with European obligations, is an opportunity for substantial tidying up, so that every drop is used rationally.
Already, through state funding of €13.5 million, mature projects are being promoted to reduce losses in water supply networks, of which €10.5 million concern the EDAs and €3 million to non-EDA communities. The implementation of these projects is part of Measure 4 of the Action Plan for Tackling Drought and Water Scarcity approved by the Council of Ministers.
The interventions are estimated to reduce daily water losses by almost 18,000 cubic meters (cubic meters), with obvious benefits in saving valuable water resources. Of decisive importance is the start of the implementation of the study for the assessment of free water in irrigation and water supply networks, which was presented at a kick-off meeting last Friday, at the TAY Headquarters.
At the meeting, all stakeholders were thoroughly briefed on the activities and deliverables of the study aimed at addressing the challenges related to water losses and aligning with the EU Drinking Water Directive. More specifically, on the basis of the Programme of 28 actions to address the water problem and the government's priorities for the effective treatment of water losses and following the instructions of the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, this study was prepared, submitted and approved, which aims at an in-depth assessment of the levels of water losses in the Republic of Cyprus, the development of National and Local Action Plans, the support and strengthening of institutions and the development of capacities through educational programs. The study, with a completion horizon of 24 months, is implemented under the Expert Services Contract, is funded by the Technical Support Instrument (TSI) 2025 of the European Commission and is executed by EY Cyprus, with a team of 19 experts.
The study will include:
➤ Assessment of leaks in the TAY and EDA networks.
➤ Recording of losses in networks of communities that have not yet joined an EDA.
➤ Preparation of a National Strategic Plan for the reduction of losses by June 2026.
➤ Preparation of Local Plans for EDAs, TAYs and five large communities by January 2027.
➤ Training of EDA and TAY staff by April 2027.
The study, which officially begins its implementation, has as its main objective the assessment of free water and losses in irrigation and water supply networks, with the aim of forming a realistic and applicable framework of actions. Deliverables include:
➤ Assessment of leakage levels in existing water supply networks, in compliance with Directive (EU) 2020/2184, which obliges Member States to submit such data by 12 January 2026. It concerns water supply bodies that provide a minimum of 10,000 cubic meters/day or serve at least 50,000 people. The contractor is expected to prepare the required estimates by the end of November.
➤ Analysis of existing data and non-integrated networks in the EDAs. Within the framework of the study, the current situation will be recorded and the water losses will be estimated for the networks that have not yet been included in the EDCs.
➤ National Strategic Plan for Loss Reduction, which will include proposals, timelines and estimated costs. Local Strategic Plans for each EDA, the TAY and five major communities (Deftera, Parekklisia, Limassol Tower, Chloraka and Emba), preparing the ground for their smooth integration into the EDAs.
➤ Training and capacity building programs for officers, with emphasis on leak detection techniques, use of digital tools, and finding funding.
Strengthening partnerships and upgrading infrastructure
The TAY, recognizing the need for coordinated action, is in the process of signing Memoranda of Cooperation with the EDCs and has set up joint technical groups, for the identification of leaks, the implementation of EU Directive 2020/2184 and the preparation of the necessary reports.
At the same time, the following are proceeding: a) The upgrade of old networks with modern materials, for durability and reduction of leaks, b) the installation of "smart" meters and an integrated monitoring system, with a budget of €7 million (funding from the Recovery and Resilience Plan), (c) Recording and reduction of unpriced water, through on-site inspections and targeted actions and d) information campaigns to raise public awareness.
Prospect for a permanent solution to the problem
The problem of losses is not one-dimensional. For this reason, the AIF has put in place a holistic approach, combining technical measures, political reforms and strategic cooperation with European Financial Institutions. Already, contacts have started with theEuropean Investment Bank and the Bank of the Council of Europe to formulate financing packages in favour of the EDCs, with an emphasis on leakage reduction projects.
The actions taken so far are the foundation for a "tidying up" of the water sector, aiming at the long-term sustainability of the networks. The government and the relevant bodies seek to turn the crisis into an opportunity, focusing on optimizing water management, ensuring adequacy for future generations and complying with Cyprus' obligations towards the EU.
As underlined by the TAY, "tackling water losses is a national priority and requires a joint effort by all: the State, local authorities and citizens".
The foundations have been laid.
Success now depends on the implementation of measures, the monitoring of results and consistency in the implementation of strategic planning.
