Volos water project faces local opposition over environmental concerns

Residents of Agios Vlasios and Ano Lechonia are contesting a €25 million water management project proposed by DEYAMB, which aims to divert water from the Agios Ioannis and Zanga springs in the Pelion region to supply approximately 120,000 residents in Volos and Nea Ionia.

The project recently received environmental approval from the Thessaly Decentralized Administration, a move locals claim occurred during the summer holidays to avoid scrutiny. Residents and local protest committees argue that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) relies on misleading data, alleging that DEYAMB has significantly inflated the springs' annual discharge capacity. While DEYAMB claims the project is a historical opportunity to secure water for the next 30 years, locals contend that current water levels are insufficient even for local needs, noting that the Koufala stream has been drying up before reaching the sea.

Critics also warn of potential ecological damage to the NATURA2000 protected area near the stream's mouth. DEYAMB maintains that the project has received positive opinions from 12 state services regarding public health, environment, and forestry, and is funded by the Ministry of Environment.