A large-scale flood protection project being implemented in the Kamares area of Larnaca is currently estimated to be completed earlier than originally planned — that is, before July 2027. This was reported by the Larnaca District Self-Government Organization, which published a video with detailed information about the progress of the works. According to the chairman of the authority, Angelos Hadjicharalambous, a significant part of the construction is already at an advanced stage, making it possible to expect early completion of the entire project.
The project is of key importance for urban infrastructure and for residents of the Kamares and Vergina areas, which are considered the most vulnerable to flooding in Larnaca.
Protection of areas affected by floods
The project gained particular relevance after the devastating floods of December 2014, when heavy rainfall caused serious damage to residential homes, commercial properties, and the road network. Since then, the issue of comprehensive flood protection has remained one of the priorities for municipal and state authorities.
The flood protection system starts from the borders of the Vergina area in the Aradippou municipality and extends to the Kamares area, passing near the historic landmark of the same name — the old aqueduct. This solution makes it possible to cover the most problematic catchment areas and significantly reduce the risk of repeated flooding.
Modern engineering solutions
The Kamares project is considered one of the most modern and technically advanced flood protection facilities ever implemented in Cyprus. The open channel is being significantly widened, providing greatly increased flow capacity. Upstream from Diadon Street, the existing channel is being dismantled and replaced with a new open rectangular channel, lined with concrete and located at a lower level.
At the same time, the earthen open channel upstream is being adapted to function as a unified system with the new structure. This increases the overall efficiency of stormwater drainage even under extreme weather conditions, which have been recorded more frequently in Cyprus in recent years.
Reconstruction of bridges and street infrastructure
As part of the project, a large-scale reconstruction of the bridge on the Vassos Lyssarides Avenue highway, connecting the Kamares and Kalo Chorio areas, is also being carried out. The new bridge will have a width of 8 m and a depth of almost 4 m, which will significantly increase water flow during heavy rains.
In the section near Limassol Avenue, the existing channel is also being dismantled and replaced with a new open channel laid along a modified route and at a lower elevation. This further strengthens flood protection for the adjacent residential neighborhoods.
Strategic goal and funding
The main goal of the project is the final resolution of the flooding problem that has troubled the Kamares and Vergina areas for decades, as well as the protection of the property of residents of Larnaca and Aradippou. In the context of climate change and increasing rainfall intensity, such infrastructure projects are becoming critically important for the sustainable development of cities.
The total cost of the flood protection construction is estimated at 7 million euros. Funding is fully provided by the central government, emphasizing the project’s priority at the national level and its importance for public safety and quality of life.