The Audit Office of Cyprus revealed urgent weaknesses in water management amid climate change and looming scarcity. The country faces severe shortages, and the Water Development Department (DWD) must oversee resources efficiently to prevent further crises.
Gaps in Monitoring and Billing
Auditors found serious flaws in metering, billing, and record-keeping. Inspectors discovered 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, raising doubts about billing accuracy. Officials observed unexplained discrepancies in meter readings but failed to investigate them. The Water Billing System also contained weaknesses in data security and access control.
Financial and Operational Risks
The DWD recovered €147.7 million, including €69.2 million from overdue Local Authority debts, but new debts continued accumulating. Authorities provided €58.1 million in water to Turkish Cypriot consumers without invoicing due to political decisions. The audit revealed slow legal action and insufficient measures to prevent over-pumping by private companies. Businesses also consumed water without proper billing, and projects to improve supply in Polis Chrysochous and Tilleria stalled despite a 2022 feasibility study.
Urgent Reforms Required
Auditors called for better organization, stronger supervision, and efficient use of DWD resources. Officials must implement control mechanisms, make faster decisions, and develop a long-term strategic plan. Cyprus needs proactive, modern, and sustainable water policies to secure its future supply.
