Environmental group Terra Cypria has raised alarms over illegal earthworks threatening monk seal habitats in the Akamas Peninsula. The organisation has lodged formal complaints with both the Interior and Agriculture ministers regarding extensive excavation, landfill, and levelling operations occurring in the Asprovikla area.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
These operations are situated on plots adjacent to Natura 2000 network sites and strictly protected zones, including the Peyia Sea Caves Natural Micro-Reserve and the Peyia Marine Protected Area. The sea caves serve as a vital breeding ground for the Mediterranean monk seal, the most endangered seal species globally, and the only type in the Mediterranean.
Terra Cypria claims that the illegal works have been conducted outside urban development zones and within designated coastal protection areas, involving land not owned by any known local businessman. The organisation has formally requested confirmation from authorities on whether the necessary planning or building permits were obtained, and if required environmental assessments were conducted.
The municipalities of Akamas and the Environment Department have also filed complaints and taken administrative action against the alleged offender. They have informed the Paphos District Local Government Organisation to pursue further action within its competencies.
The complaints were initiated following a citizen report made on 26 August, which documented large-scale land-clearing activities within plots 411, 434, and 435 of Akamas Municipality in Paphos district. This report, supplemented by photographic and satellite evidence, highlights the severity of the situation.
Terra Cypria emphasised that these activities are occurring outside designated development boundaries, specifically within the Coastal Protection Zone as outlined by national legislation. The operations are alarmingly close to two Natura 2000 zones: the Akamas Peninsula Special Area of Conservation (CY4000010) and the Akamas Peninsula Special Protection Area (CY4000023), as well as bordering the Peyia Sea Caves Natural Micro-Reserve and the Peyia Sea Caves Marine Protected Area, both of which are protected by decisions from the Council of Ministers.
The organisation reminded officials that projects within or near protected areas must undergo strict environmental assessments and adhere to both national and European legislation. In cases of confirmed violations, Terra Cypria demands that immediate sanctions be imposed.
Letters detailing these concerns were sent to various officials, including the Auditor General and the Environment Commissioner, as well as representatives from the Department of Town Planning, Land Registry, and the Paphos District Administration. Terra Cypria has requested written responses within a month, as mandated by environmental legislation. They insist that such illegal activities pose a significant threat to biodiversity, the natural landscape, and the rule of law, especially when conducted without the knowledge or approval of competent authorities.
Leave a Reply