Water shortages threaten banana farms in Paphos

Banana farmers in Paphos are facing a growing crisis as water shortages put their crops at risk. The problem has intensified following the draining of the Mavrokolympos reservoir for maintenance and Cyprus’ driest January since 1997.

The reservoir’s draining, meant to fix a corroded vent, cut irrigation supplies by 50% in affected areas. Many farmers now struggle to secure enough water to keep their crops alive.

At a public meeting attended by around 250 farmers and officials, concerns were raised that if the crisis continues, bananas may fail to grow to marketable size, leading to financial losses. Farmers urged the government to step in and provide support.

Local officials acknowledged the severity of the situation, calling for banana growers to receive equal support as other agricultural sectors. They also warned that 2024 is shaping up to be a year of extreme water scarcity, with the reservoir’s draining worsening an already critical problem.

While some farms can access water from the Paphos district irrigation system, which connects to the Asprokremmos reservoir, officials cautioned that these reserves are dangerously low — at only 28.5% capacity as of January 23, half of last year’s level.

Farmers worry that without consistent irrigation, banana crops will wither, as they require substantial water to thrive.

Adding to the crisis, a fire destroyed a desalination plant near Mandria and Kouklia, further straining the district’s water supply.

In response, local officials are pushing for the construction of two new reservoirs to safeguard farmers against future droughts. However, immediate solutions are needed to prevent financial losses and crop failures.

source: cyprus-mail.com

photo: n-cyprus.philenews.com