An increased microbiological load was detected in samples taken near the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Moni, according to the results of the analyses of the Department of Environment.
In a statement issued after what recently came to light about marine pollution incidents in Limassol, the Department of Environment gives clarifications on the quality of bathing water and the controls that are underway.
As he states, the increased microbiological load was detected only in samples taken near the Station of Moni and away from the five neighbouring swimming areas that were checked.
In the areas of Kalymnos, Akti Governor, Agios Georgios Alamanou, Aoratoi and Panagios, according to the Department of Environment, "no microbiological burden was found".
Based on both emergency and planned sampling, the Department of Environment reports that the quality of bathing water in the area was not affected and is still classified as excellent.
At the same time, he clarifies that the monitoring of bathing waters is done systematically throughout the bathing season, from May 1 to October 31.
The announcement is as follows
On the occasion of recent publications regarding the quality of bathing water and recognizing the legitimate concern of the public, the Department of the Environment wishes to clarify that, based on the results of the inspections and analyses to date, the quality of the water in the bathing areas that have been inspected has not been affected and remains excellent.
It is reported that the quality of bathing water in the Republic of Cyprus is systematically monitored by the Department of Environment, in cooperation with the General Chemical State Laboratory and the Health Services, in accordance with the provisions of Directive 2006/7/EC and the relevant national legislation. Monitoring is carried out throughout the bathing season, from May 1st to October 31st, based on a specific and scientifically documented sampling and analysis program.
For 2026, taking into account complaints submitted during the previous bathing season, the Department of Environment, in collaboration with the Health Services and the relevant Municipalities, is implementing an intensified bathing water monitoring program in the Districts of Famagusta and Limassol, as well as in the Mackenzie area of the Larnaca District. In these areas, the frequency of sampling has increased, exceeding the minimum requirements of the relevant legislation. The results of the analyses are regularly posted on the Department's website for public information.
In relation to the foaming phenomena and the appearance of spots observed in sea areas of the Limassol District, additional sampling and analyses are carried out, in addition to the regular monitoring program. The investigation is carried out in collaboration with the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research and the General Chemical State Laboratory, in order to determine the nature and origin of these phenomena. Based on the results so far, no presence of microbiological burden has been found, which is associated with the observed foaming phenomena. The investigation, however, continues to gather all the necessary evidence.
Regarding the complaints about discharges from the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Moni, the Department of Environment immediately proceeded to investigate the incident, to additional checks and to take measures based on the Water Pollution Control Laws.
In collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research and the Health Services of the Ministry of Health, emergency sampling was carried out, both in the area of the Monastery and in five neighbouring bathing water areas (Kalymnos, Governor's Beach, Agios Georgios Alamanou, Aoratoi and Panagias).
The analyses showed an increased microbiological load only in samples taken near the area of the Moni Station and away from the five bathing areas, in which, based on the sampling carried out, no microbiological burden was found.
Overall, as far as the quality of bathing water in the area is concerned, the results of both emergency and scheduled sampling show that it has not been affected and that it continues to be characterized as excellent.
The protection of water quality and the safeguarding of public health are a constant priority of the Department of Environment.
The Department's inspectors will continue to carry out increased inspections. Where violations are detected, the prescribed measures will be taken immediately, while the public will be responsibly informed of any new development.
