Philenews

Environmental Commissioner: "Abundant March Rains are a Blessing – Expected in April Too"

Published March 28, 2026, 17:15
Environmental Commissioner: "Abundant March Rains are a Blessing – Expected in April Too"

The Environmental Commissioner, Antonia Theodosiou, emphasized the importance of dam construction in Cyprus, as the country ranks among the highest globally in terms of dam overflow. Proper water management, conservation, modern infrastructure, and adapted crops are crucial to avoid waste, especially in regions facing prolonged droughts. Ms. Theodosiou referred to the global water shortage and potential "water wars," highlighting the need for careful management and storage. She expressed satisfaction with the abundant rainfall in March and forecasts for April, but warned against complacency. She noted that dams should allow water flow to the sea to maintain the marine ecosystem. At the same time, she stressed the importance of desalination, but with moderation. Ms. Theodosiou mentioned the construction of dams in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly after the Aswan Dam in Egypt, which has affected the water flow to the sea and the clarity of the waters. The Aswan Dam, a massive engineering project, was created to control the Nile floods and create Lake Nasser. In conclusion, the Environmental Commissioner stressed the need for holistic water management, combining storage, conservation, desalination, and the preservation of the marine ecosystem, taking into account the challenges posed by climate change and the growing global water scarcity.