Greek authorities plan a controversial, large-scale project to divert two rivers from Evrytania to secure water for Athens, facing local opposition over environmental impact and necessity.
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Greek authorities plan a large-scale project called “Evrytos” to divert water from two rivers in the mountainous region of Evrytania—the Karpenisiotis and Krikeliotis—to prevent water shortages in Athens, which supplies most of Greece’s population. The government presents this €535 million project as essential for securing water for the next thirty years. However, local residents, elected officials, and environmental groups strongly oppose it, arguing that the plan represents an unfair transfer of resources from a rural area to the capital without sufficient proof of necessity or comprehensive studies comparing it with alternatives. Critics point out that diverting water will alter a much larger river system than just the intake points. Opponents also criticize the lack of public feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses, emphasizing that the rivers are vital for local ecosystems, agriculture, and nature-based tourism. Furthermore, environmental organizations note that such projects conflict with modern agricultural policies and suggest that focusing on water-saving crops and improving infrastructure should precede any major diversion scheme.
