The Aegean Sea islands of Alonnissos and Tinos were declared in a state of emergency Tuesday due to drinking water shortages, ahead of an anticipated spike in consumption during the summer tourist season.
The Ionian Sea island of Meganissi also had its state of emergency for the same reason extended for another three months.
The largely symbolic decision by the Environment and Energy Ministry will allow local authorities to fast-track better water management measures and will apply for the next three months, with an option of renewal.
Over the past year, Corfu and Meganissi in the Ionian Sea and Karpathos, Leros, Patmos, Astypalea and Symi in the Aegean – as well as the Greater Athens region – have been declared in a state of emergency for the same reason.
The designation is largely a bureaucratic manoeuvre that allows local authorities to accelerate measures such as the leasing of desalination plants.
