Cyprus: Varying Water Prices

The Ministry of Interior Affairs on Cyprus is considering the option of increasing water rates in some areas, including Limassol and Larnaca, where water has been charged less than in other districts. The aim is both to streamline water prices throughout the island and comply with an EU Directive which asks local water boards to adjust prices by 2010 to reflect water service provision costs.

“Water resources belong to all citizens and should be handed out equally, regardless on the geographic location of various wells, dams and boreholes,” said General Auditor Chrystalla Yiorkadji, asking for prices to increase in areas where they are charged less.

At present, local village councils and water boards have discretion in adjusting water rates, which has resulted in an unfair situation whereby water charges vary depending on where one lives. The tri-monthly water bill for an average household (estimated at 45m²) would be €42 in Nicosia, €31 in Larnaca, €16 in Limassol, €27 in neighbouring Pareklissia and a staggering €225 in Pissouri. Punitive water rates were introduced by some village councils in the summer as a measure against excessive consumption.