A serious coastal erosion problem continues to affect the shoreline of the municipal district of Oroklini, an issue that has troubled local authorities for many years. Despite studies and the implementation of projects costing several million euros over time, the problem persists, altering the character of the seafront area and creating an unsightly image for visitors.
Since mid last year, Larnaca Municipality has been in constant contact with the Public Works Department, seeking effective measures to curb the erosion. Works have already been completed, including the installation of breakwaters and the removal of a vertical groyne located offshore opposite the Lebay hotel. However, shoreline retreat continues, particularly in the area in front of the Radisson Beach hotel, a development that is causing serious concern to municipal authorities.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, the director of Technical Services at Larnaca Municipality, Neofyta Angelidou, said that when the Oroklini seafront promenade was constructed, the width of the beach at the time was taken into account. As a result, the Town Planning Department decided that this section would not be built on piles but on foundations.
She noted, however, that erosion is now evident along the entire length of the promenade, regardless of whether piles or foundations were used. She added that this is particularly worrying, as the erosion has intensified following the removal of the vertical breakwater.
Ms Angelidou described the issue as complex, adding that Larnaca Municipality has already engaged two specialist consultants to address the matter. She stressed, however, that the primary responsibility for resolving the problem lies with the state, and specifically with officials from the Public Works Department, from whom an effective and lasting solution is expected.
She said the municipality has taken certain safety measures to protect the public using the seafront promenade. However, she noted that the image of a severely eroded coastline is not what is expected of a busy coastal front used throughout the year. For this reason, she urged the relevant authorities to take immediate and effective action to identify the causes of the problem and find solutions.
Problems related to safety, visual degradation and ground subsidence have been observed in the area, she concluded.