summer

Cyprus faces water shortage as reservoirs reach critical levels

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Cyprus faces water shortage as reservoirs reach critical levels

Cyprus is facing a severe water shortage with reservoir levels at a record low. The lack of rainfall has left many dams below average capacity, with the largest dam, Kouris, holding only 41.9 million cubic meters of water compared to 61 million last year. Overall, national water storage is at just 42.1% of capacity, down from 65.6% last year. The situation is expected to worsen as temperatures rise in the approaching summer months.

Indian PM Modi, ’s alliance leads in majority of seats in early counting trends

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Indian PM Modi, ’s alliance leads in majority of seats in early counting trends

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliance is ahead in more than 300 seats in the lower house of parliament, with BJP alone leading in 255 seats.

Europe’s third largest travel operator files for bankruptcy

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Europe’s third largest travel operator files for bankruptcy

FTI, a German tourism company, has filed for bankruptcy after failed negotiations with the government. The bankruptcy affects 11,000 employees and many travelers who have booked trips. The company had been struggling even before the pandemic and had received financial support from the government and other sources. Efforts are being made to ensure that current vacations can be completed and refunds will be handled by the Travel Insurance Fund.

Irrigation water reduced by 33% due to drought

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Irrigation water reduced by 33% due to drought

The Water Development Department has reduced irrigation water by 33% compared to last year due to drought and poor water conditions. The remaining water is allocated for irrigation, with the drinking water sector fully satisfied at 100%. Farmers were informed in advance about the reduced quantities and must plan accordingly. Dam capacity is at 42.1%, and if conditions remain the same, there may be a problem with water supply next summer. The Department is promoting efficient water use in agriculture with practical tips for irrigation during drought conditions.

Cultural festival kicks off this weekend

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Cultural festival kicks off this weekend

The 27th edition of the Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus is taking place at Axiothea Mansion in old Nicosia from June to July. The festival will feature performances by local and international artists from various countries, including Cyprus, Bulgaria, England, France, Germany, Greece, Iran, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Portugal. The festival will include recitals, dance performances, literature and poetry evenings, theatre productions, and more.

Just 385 families keep four villages in occupied areas alive

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Just 385 families keep four villages in occupied areas alive

There are only 385 families still living in the occupied villages of Kormakiti, Karpasia, Agia Triada, and Rizokarpaso, serving as pillars of Hellenism and the Maronite community. The Ministry of Social Welfare has revised the Resettlement Plan to provide financial support and incentives for families to return. The plan includes flexible conditions and offers facilitations such as allowing non-consecutive overnight stays and extending caregiving allowances. Interested parties must have permanent residence in the occupied villages and not be recipients of public assistance. The Ministry of Social Welfare manages and implements the plan, providing a monthly allowance to beneficiaries who meet the requirements and continue to reside permanently in their occupied village.

Summer delights: Tropical trees and flowers that beat the heat

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Summer delights: Tropical trees and flowers that beat the heat

The gardens are looking very summery with tropical trees and flowers starting to bloom. The jacarandas were the last trees to flower, and some trees may surprise with another flowering later in the year. Some favorite trees mentioned include Caesalpinia gilliesii, Leucophyllum frutescens, and Polygala myrtifolia. The text also discusses Tecoma stans, plumeria, and roses. The Plant of the Month is Oenothera speciosa, a ground-hugging plant with fragrant pink blooms loved by bees and butterflies.