Manolis Makaris criticizes Greek water infrastructure delays

Manolis Makaris, leader of the ‘Prota i Peloponnisos’ faction, has issued a sharp critique of the Greek government regarding the mismanagement of major irrigation projects across the Peloponnese. Makaris alleges that the neglect of water infrastructure is a deliberate strategy aimed at facilitating the privatization of water resources.

He highlighted several ‘ghost projects,’ noting that while the Filiatrino dam is constructed and contains water, it lacks the necessary distribution networks. Similarly, the Asopos dam lacks both water and networks. He also pointed to the Minagioti dam, which was reportedly denied funding from the Recovery Fund despite government promises, depriving Messinia farmers of vital resources.

Regarding the Asopos dam specifically, Makaris noted that progress has stalled, moving only 5% from 65% to 70% completion since 2019. He further criticized the state for failing to pay farmers for land expropriations in communities such as Bozika, Titanis, Gonousa, and Paradeisi. Additionally, he questioned why the Ministry has failed to pay a 370,000 euro debt, a delay that he claims blocks project progress and invites further legal claims from contractors.