A major flood protection project in the Kamares area of Larnaca is entering its final stage. According to the Larnaca District Local Government Organization (EOA), construction is currently progressing at a particularly rapid pace, meaning that the project could be completed ahead of schedule, before July 2027.
The project's main objective is to create the infrastructure needed to reduce the risk of flooding in residential areas within the municipalities of Larnaca and Aradippou. The system is designed to protect these areas from floodwaters originating in the Kalo Chorio River basin. The need for such an extensive project became especially evident after the devastating floods of December 13, 2014, which caused significant damage to homes and other properties in the Kamares and Vergina areas.
However, implementing the project has taken several years. In 2023, responsibility for its construction was transferred to the Larnaca Sewerage Board. Following the local government reform, responsibility for implementing the project was assumed by the Larnaca EOA.
What's Included in the Project
Construction officially began in January 2025, with the original completion schedule set at 30 months. The total cost of the project is €6.436 million, fully funded by the Republic of Cyprus. The construction contract was awarded to IACOVOU BROTHERS (CONSTRUCTIONS LTD).
The project includes a comprehensive upgrade of the existing drainage infrastructure:
- construction of new open concrete channels;
- reconstruction of the bridge on Dryadon Street;
- modification of the channel section between Dryadon Street and Limassol Avenue;
- construction of a new bridge next to the existing one;
- reconstruction of Larissis Street and construction of a new bridge;
- construction of an open channel between the bridges on Limassol Avenue and Larissis Street;
- removal of the embankment and pedestrian pathway above the Kamares monument;
- construction of a pile-supported pedestrian bridge;
- reconstruction of the riverbed near the Kamares monument under the supervision of the Department of Antiquities;
- construction of a cul-de-sac at the end of Ellispontou Street.
At the current stage, particular attention is being given to removing the embankment and pedestrian pathway near the Kamares monument and constructing the new pile-supported pedestrian bridge. These measures will allow water to flow more freely and improve flood protection for the surrounding area.
The Next Phase Will Protect Vergina
The Larnaca EOA has already begun planning the next phase of the project. Its goal is to expand and strengthen the flood protection system so that it can meet the needs of the rapidly growing residential district of Vergina.
Additional rainwater drainage infrastructure is also being considered an essential component of the broader flood protection strategy for the Kamares area. The Larnaca EOA previously stated that a separate stormwater drainage system in the district would help reduce pressure on the existing infrastructure and further decrease the risk of flooding.
The organization emphasized that the project is of strategic importance to the city. It is expected to improve public safety, protect private property, and create more resilient infrastructure capable of meeting the needs of a growing Larnaca. If the current pace of construction continues, the project could be completed ahead of its original deadline. As a result, Larnaca may have one of its most important flood protection systems in operation as early as next year.