Despite the significant growth of agrotourism and the continuous increase in traffic, Kathikas still faces serious challenges that threaten its viability and future development. The main problems remain demographic shrinkage, inadequate infrastructure, urban planning restrictions and the increased risk of fires.
In his statements, the Deputy Mayor of Kathikas, Charalambos Fylaktou, stated that today about 400 residents live in the community, including several foreigners who have chosen to settle permanently in the village. However, as he pointed out, few young couples choose to stay or move to Kathikas, which intensifies the demographic problem of the area.
A decisive factor, according to Mr. Fylaktou, is the condition of the road network that connects the area with Paphos. As he explained, the daily commute from the area of Stroumbi to Paphos can take up to an hour, due to the increased traffic and especially the passage of heavy vehicles and trucks.
He described the situation as "torture", pointing out that this road should have been completed some time ago. As he said, this is one of the most important deterrents for young couples with young children who would like to settle in the community.
The Deputy Mayor underlined the need for immediate state intervention to improve infrastructure and support the countryside, while stressing that a different government policy is needed that will encourage young people to choose the countryside as a place of permanent residence.
In this context, he recommended the implementation of sponsorship and housing support schemes for young couples, noting that acquiring a home in urban areas has become extremely difficult and economically unaffordable for a large part of the young generation. As he mentioned, the countryside can be a worthwhile alternative, provided that there will be substantial state support.
At the same time, he expressed strong concern about the urban planning regulations applied in rural areas. According to Mr. Fylaktou, the reduction in the growth rate in rural zones acts as a deterrent to both the creation of permanent homes and the promotion of rural developments, limiting the possibilities for rural development.
Another serious issue that concerns the community is the fires. As he noted, the rich vegetation of the area combined with the high temperatures of the summer months significantly increase the risk of fires. For this reason, he argued that better planning and utilization of abandoned plots of land is needed through appropriate incentives and sponsorships, in order to limit risks and at the same time strengthen rural development.
Despite the difficulties, Mr. Fylaktou stated that the internal road network of the Kathikas district is at a satisfactory level. He also stressed that the strategic goal of the local authority remains the further promotion of the village as a model agrotourism and cultural destination.
As he stated, Kathikas is a village that keeps alive the roots, traditions and authenticity of the Cypriot countryside, with the local authority constantly investing in highlighting the history, cultural identity and hospitality of the area.
Concluding, the Deputy Mayor underlined the need to formulate a long-term strategy for the revitalization of the countryside, pointing out that the preservation of history, customs and traditions is a key priority for the future of Kathikas and the Cypriot countryside as a whole.
CNA
