The installation of mobile desalination units donated by the United Arab Emirates, aimed at addressing water needs in Limassol, is progressing intensively. However, unexpected technical issues have pushed the operational timeline back by approximately three weeks, according to George Kazantzis, Deputy Director of the Water Development Department.

Yesterday, Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou visited the site at the Moni Power Station, where the desalination units are currently being installed, to receive an update on the project's status.

In his statements, Kazantzis explained that the original goal was to complete the installation by the end of June or early July. However, "we are slightly behind schedule," he noted.

“It’s a very complex technical project. We face numerous issues daily with the contractor. The units are brand new, and during inspections, several problems have emerged that need to be resolved individually,” he added.

Kazantzis emphasized that the project team is in regular contact with the unit manufacturer in the UAE for technical support. “We deal with multiple issues daily, in cooperation with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) and subcontractors,” he said.

Despite the challenges, he underlined that all issues are being resolved: “There’s just a minor delay, which we’re addressing by activating additional boreholes in the Kouris Delta and Germasogeia, to cover any shortfalls in water supply.”

When asked about the new expected launch date, Kazantzis explained that the project operates on a dynamic schedule that is reassessed weekly.

“As things currently stand, we believe water delivery can begin by July 22,” he said. However, he cautioned that this depends on the timely delivery of critical materials, which are beyond their immediate control.

“The crews are working under significant pressure, every day of the week, despite harsh conditions. We’re doing everything possible to deliver water as soon as we can,” Kazantzis concluded.