**Govt Insists Bathing Water Quality Remains ‘Excellent’ Despite Pollution Reports**
The Cyprus Ministry of Environment reaffirmed on Friday that the quality of bathing water around the island remains "excellent," even amid recent concerns regarding pollution in the sea off Limassol. This declaration follows reports of foam appearing in the water and complaints about sewage discharges from the Moni wastewater treatment plant.
Throughout the swimming season, which runs from May to October, the state laboratory and health services conduct regular testing of sea water across Cyprus. This year, in response to previous complaints, additional testing has been implemented in the Famagusta and Limassol districts, as well as at Mackenzie beach in Larnaca. These enhanced measures include more frequent sampling than what is legally required.
In light of the recent pollution reports near Limassol, the environment department stated that they are actively taking extra water samples to identify the source of the issue. Preliminary results have shown no evidence of microbiological contamination in the sea, although officials noted that investigations are ongoing.
Addressing the specific concerns related to the Moni wastewater plant, the department indicated that they responded promptly to the complaints. They conducted additional inspections and collected emergency samples from both the plant and nearby beaches, including Kalymnos and Governor’s. The findings revealed elevated levels of bacteria only in samples taken directly adjacent to the Moni facility, while no bacteria were detected at the nearby beaches.
The environment department emphasized that the overall quality of bathing water in the area remains unaffected, asserting that both routine and exceptional sampling results classify the water quality as excellent. They continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety and environmental health.