Concerns over excessive water consumption in private and commercial swimming pools have prompted the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment to consider a comprehensive package of measures.
Minister Maria Panayiotou confirmed that her department, together with the Town Planning Authority, is assessing options aimed at reducing waste at a time when water resources are under strain.
During a session of the Parliamentary Environment Committee, the Minister responded to comments from AKEL MP Nikos Kettiros, who highlighted that hundreds of thousands of tonnes of water remain locked in pools while agriculture suffers from shortages. Committee Chair Charalambos Theopemptou further noted that a single swimming pool uses as much water as five people consume over an entire year.
Panayiotou explained that the Water Development Department has long opposed the use of potable water (i.e. water that is safe for human consumption) in pools and consistently includes such restrictions in approval conditions.
She added that the government has held extensive consultations with industry stakeholders and examined international practice, including the use of seawater in swimming pools. This approach appears feasible for seafront hotels and for new developments currently at the design stage.
The Cyprus water crisis
Cyprus is facing its worst drought in over a century, with 2025 recorded as the driest year since 1901, according to Panayiotou.
Mobile desalination units are already fully operational, with seven major facilities under development in Limassol, Paphos, and Famagusta. Investments include €200 million for network upgrades and over €140 million for desalinated water purchases in 2026.
Authorities are also implementing measures to reduce leakage, promote water conservation, and expand network connections to 29 communities in Western Nicosia by 2030. While cloud seeding has been ruled out as ineffective, long-term plans include reviewing national water policy up to 2050 and exploring innovative solutions such as floating solar panels on dams.
Local MPs have urged swift action, citing crop losses and water scarcity. The government insists ongoing projects aim to prevent rationing, but additional desalination units remain essential to secure Cyprus’ water future.
When I checked the water levels of all the Cyprus reservoirs a few minutes ago, they stood at just 9.5 per cent of their total capacity compared to 22.5 percent a year ago.
Heavy fines are imposed on those found to be wasting water – I cannot wash our car, and we can’t water the garden.
The Kykkos Bishopric has held an all-night vigil and a procession, making stops for prayers for rain.
