Kifisos River industrial pollution

The Kifisos River in Attica is experiencing systematic pollution from industrial, urban, and livestock waste. Environmental experts have described the issue as a long-standing problem, noting that at least one tanker may discharge waste into the waterway every day. Pollution sources include marble factories, car washes, and small workshops that use storm drains or direct pipes to release chemicals and oils.

Following reports of continuous water quality degradation, authorities have begun targeted enforcement. On September 28, an inspection conducted by the Hellenic Police’s Environmental Protection Department and officials from the Attica Region’s Directorate of Environment and Climate Change uncovered a significant pollution incident in Metamorfosi. Investigators discovered a leak from a sedimentation tank at an Interbeton ready-mix concrete production facility.

The waste created a continuous stream that flowed across the ground surface directly into the Kifisos River. Preliminary testing using pH paper indicated that the waste exhibited an alkaline reaction, suggesting the presence of hazardous industrial chemicals. Authorities stated that the pollution posed a risk to public health.

A 55-year-old manager responsible for the facility’s environmental compliance was arrested and faces charges for violating environmental protection laws. Samples have been collected and sent for laboratory analysis to determine the exact composition of the substances. This incident follows another recent pollution case involving a fuel station in Egaleo, raising renewed concerns regarding the protection of the Kifisos River from industrial contaminants.