Water scarcity hits Greek islands amid tourism boom

Seven Greek islands in the Aegean Sea are grappling with severe water shortages at the height of the tourist season. Astypalea, Tinos, Alonissos, Leros, Patmos, Symi, and Karpathos are experiencing critical water scarcity, a situation exacerbated by an unusually dry and rainless winter. The dire circumstances have compelled local authorities to declare a state of emergency, granting them greater latitude to manage the water crisis and implement usage restrictions.

The dwindling water reserves are a significant concern for the tourism industry, which anticipates a record season following the release of the film "Odyseja." The influx of visitors, however, intensifies water consumption precisely when resources are most constrained. Astypalea, one of the most affected islands, has seen its main reservoir filled to only one-sixth of its capacity. At current summer consumption rates, the remaining water is projected to last just over five months.

In response, hotels are introducing conservation measures. Some are filling swimming pools and jacuzzis with seawater, while guests may experience lower water pressure in taps, particularly during peak evening hours. One hotelier is offering 5-euro vouchers to guests who opt out of daily room cleaning and towel changes.

To prioritize water for residents and tourists, authorities have restricted access for farmers, forcing some to use lower-quality water and incur crop losses. Some farmers warn they may abandon agricultural production next season if the drought persists. While a temporary seawater desalination plant has been launched on Astypalea, its high cost and energy consumption raise questions about long-term viability amid rising energy prices and emission reduction goals. Plans for water retention solutions, including rainwater harvesting, are also underway.

The Greek government has allocated 15 million euros for water management investments across nine of the country's inhabited islands, including desalination plants and modernized water networks. Officials emphasize that water access is now a critical issue of security, economic development, and quality of life.