Efforts by environmental groups and authorities to stop the construction of a wind farm in a Natura 2000 protected area near Kellia, Larnaca, have been met with continued defiance. Despite legal orders, complaints, and fines, the project progresses, raising serious environmental and legal concerns.

The wind farm is located in the Kellia State Forest and the Special Protection Area of Koshi-Pallourokampos, part of the Natura 2000 network. Violations include breaches of environmental approval and urban planning permits. Environmental organizations such as Terra Cypria and BirdLife Cyprus reported ongoing construction, with wind turbines being installed despite official directives to cease activities.

On-site inspections on December 13, 2024, confirmed that construction was continuing. Observers noted a turbine blade installed earlier in the day and a second by evening, illustrating persistent non-compliance.

The Department of Forests, Game and Fauna Service, and the Department of Environment have documented multiple violations, including:

• Construction in zones designated for environmental protection (Z1) and agricultural use (G3) without proper safeguards.

• Non-compliance with terms set during environmental approval and urban planning permits.

Authorities have issued fines totaling €2,500—€500 from the Department of Forests and €2,000 from the Game and Fauna Service. However, these penalties have failed to deter the developer, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and larger fines.

Environmental groups argue the construction endangers the delicate ecosystem of the Kellia State Forest and the birdlife within the Natura 2000 zone. They have also urged the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, along with the Parliamentary Committee on the Environment, to strengthen the legislative framework governing environmental violations.