**Title: Cyprus to Install Escape Ramps at Reservoirs to Prevent Animal Drownings**
**Date: June 22, 2026**
In a significant move to enhance animal welfare, the Department of Forests in Cyprus has signed a contract for the construction and installation of 75 escape ramps at reservoirs across the island. This initiative comes in response to increasing incidents of wild and stray animals drowning after becoming trapped in reservoirs with steep or slippery banks.
The contract, valued at €17,000, was finalized on June 15, 2026, and marks the first large-scale effort to create dedicated escape infrastructure at public reservoirs in Cyprus. The Department of Forests will oversee the project, which is expected to be completed within two months.
The decision to install these escape ramps follows a series of tragic events where animals were found dead after being unable to exit the reservoirs. In February 2025, Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou highlighted the issue, calling for inspections of reservoirs and urging private owners to install escape ramps and maintain proper fencing to prevent similar occurrences.
The escape ramps are designed to provide animals with a means of climbing out of reservoirs, thereby reducing the risk of exhaustion and drowning. This proactive approach aims to protect local wildlife and stray animals, addressing a growing concern among animal welfare advocates and the general public.
The introduction of these ramps is expected to significantly improve the safety of animals in the vicinity of reservoirs, ensuring that they have a viable escape route should they accidentally fall in. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to animal welfare in Cyprus and highlights the importance of responsible management of natural resources.
As the project moves forward, it is anticipated that the installation of escape ramps will not only save lives but also raise awareness about the need for protective measures for animals in various environments. The Department of Forests is optimistic that this initiative will serve as a model for future animal welfare projects in the region.
The installation of these ramps is part of a larger conversation about animal welfare and environmental stewardship in Cyprus, as authorities continue to explore solutions to protect both wildlife and domestic animals.