The Audit Office of Cyprus found serious gaps in water management amid climate change and rising scarcity. Officials warned that the Water Development Department (DWD) must oversee resources carefully to protect the nation’s supply.
Monitoring and Billing Gaps Threaten Accuracy
Auditors discovered weak metering, inaccurate billing, and incomplete documentation. Inspectors found that two key intake points, supplying 64% of Nicosia’s water, lacked regular checks. The DWD could not access Limassol meters or Larnaca’s telemetry system, leaving invoicing uncertain. Officials noticed unexplained discrepancies in readings but did not investigate. The Water Billing System also had flaws in data protection and access control.
Financial Mismanagement and Overuse
The DWD collected €147.7 million, including €69.2 million from overdue Local Authority debts, but new debts continued to grow. Officials provided €58.1 million in water to Turkish Cypriot consumers without invoicing for political reasons. The audit found slow legal action and weak enforcement against private companies that over-pump water. Businesses consumed water without proper billing, and officials delayed projects in Polis Chrysochous and Tilleria despite studies completed in 2022.
Reforms Urgently Needed
Auditors urged stronger organization, tighter supervision, and better use of DWD resources. Officials must implement strict controls, act quickly, and develop a long-term strategic plan. Cyprus must adopt proactive, modern, and sustainable water policies to secure future supply.
