The Audit Office of Cyprus warned that poor water management worsens shortages amid climate change. The country must safeguard its water resources. The Water Development Department (DWD) now plays a central role in controlling, monitoring, and distributing water effectively.
Metering and Billing Failures
Auditors discovered serious flaws in water metering, billing, and record-keeping. Inspectors found 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 invoiced quantities uncertain. Officials noted unexplained meter discrepancies but failed to investigate. The computerized billing system also suffered from weak data security and poor access controls.
Financial Gaps and Overuse Risks
The DWD collected €147.7 million, including €69.2 million from overdue Local Authority debts, but new debts kept accumulating. Authorities supplied €58.1 million in water to Turkish Cypriot consumers without billing due to political decisions. Auditors also flagged delayed legal actions and inadequate measures to stop over-pumping by private companies. Businesses consumed water without charges, and critical projects in Polis Chrysochous and Tilleria stalled, despite a 2022 study.
Calls for Reform and Strategy
The audit urged stronger organization, tighter supervision, and efficient use of DWD resources. Authorities must strengthen controls, make timely decisions, and adopt a long-term strategic plan. Cyprus must implement proactive, sustainable water policies to ensure reliable supply for the future.
