kathimerini.gr
Heraklion Seeks Desalination to Combat Severe Drought
Facing severe drought due to the driest October in decades, Heraklion's mayor requested a feasibility study for desalination from the Almyros River, complemented by a new tertiary treatment plant producing 30,000 cubic meters of daily irrigation water, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund, aiming for completion by late 2025.
- What immediate actions are being taken to address the severe water shortage in Heraklion, Crete, given the exceptionally dry weather conditions?
- The mayor of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokeirinos, requested a feasibility study for desalination to bolster water supply from the Almyros River due to severe drought from decreased rainfall in Crete. This aims to alleviate water shortages and ensure sufficient water for the city. The study will include a desalination plant and water transport networks.
- What are the broader implications of the drought on Crete and how does the proposed desalination project aim to alleviate both short-term and long-term water supply issues?
- This initiative responds to the critically dry October 2024, the driest in decades, and the ongoing water shortage impacting Crete. The project addresses the immediate need for increased water supply while exploring long-term solutions in collaboration with the Malevizio municipality. The lack of sufficient rainfall in September, October, and November further emphasizes the urgency.
- How will the integration of the tertiary treatment plant and the desalination project contribute to the long-term sustainability of water resources and promote a circular economy model in Heraklion?
- The 18.5 million euro tertiary treatment plant, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund, will generate 30,000 cubic meters of irrigation water daily, supplementing existing capacity. This project, expected to be completed by late 2025, is a crucial step toward establishing a circular economy model and sustainable water management in Heraklion, reducing reliance on dwindling natural resources and addressing the impacts of climate change.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the water shortage as a serious problem requiring immediate action, highlighting the mayor's proactive steps. The headline, while not explicitly provided, would likely emphasize the urgency of the situation and the proposed solutions. This framing could be considered slightly positive towards the mayor's actions, but it is mainly driven by the objective reality of the water shortage.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. The description of October 2024 as "the most arid in recent decades" is a strong statement, but factually supported by the cited expert. Overall, the tone is informative and factual.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the actions taken by the mayor and the technical details of the water projects. It could benefit from including perspectives from residents of Heraklion, farmers, or environmental groups on the water shortage and the proposed solutions. The impact of the water shortage on various sectors (e.g., agriculture, tourism) is also not explicitly discussed. Omission of potential drawbacks or alternative solutions to desalination is also noteworthy.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses initiatives to improve water supply in Heraklion, Crete, addressing water scarcity due to drought. The projects, including desalination and tertiary wastewater treatment, directly contribute to ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. The construction of a tertiary treatment plant will also enable the reuse of water for irrigation, promoting sustainable resource management.