Cyprus shelter capacity covers only 40-45% of population

Reports indicate that the approximately 2,500 shelters in Cyprus are only capable of accommodating 40% to 45% of the population. Despite recent armament activities, civil defense infrastructure remains insufficient.

An inspection by the Ministry of Interior revealed that 194 of the 2,480 inspected shelters are no longer usable. Additionally, 288 shelters were found to be accessible only to the owners or tenants of the specific buildings they are located in, raising concerns regarding general accessibility.

To address these deficiencies, the administration has allocated a total of 200,000 euros in the 2027 budget: 100,000 euros for research and investigation into new shelter areas, and 100,000 euros for the maintenance and improvement of existing facilities. Interior Minister Konstantinos Yoannu previously noted that efforts to establish new shelter areas through negotiations with hotels, churches, and business organizations have faced challenges.