The South Aegean Region has fined the Municipality of Patmos €17,820 for severe environmental violations linked to the malfunction of the island’s wastewater treatment plant, which led to untreated sewage being discharged into the sea.
The penalty follows a months-long investigation prompted by residents’ complaints of foul odors and cloudy seawater near Hohlakas Bay last summer. Inspectors discovered that the facility had been shut down without notifying the competent environmental authorities or taking immediate corrective measures. As a result, untreated wastewater flowed directly into a blocked underwater pipeline, contaminating the surrounding coastal waters.
The violation was classified as “significant” under Greece’s environmental compliance framework, one of the highest categories of infraction. The municipality’s failure to respond promptly to repeated warnings, and its missed deadline to submit formal explanations, further contributed to the decision to impose the fine.
The fine will be deposited into Greece’s Green Fund, as required by national law. However, the municipality must still complete a corrective action plan, which includes repairing the underwater pipeline, upgrading the treatment facility’s systems, and establishing ongoing monitoring of wastewater quality. Continued noncompliance could lead to additional penalties or judicial measures.
Regional officials stressed that local governments have a legal and moral duty to protect marine environments and public health, particularly in popular tourist destinations such as Patmos. Environmental advocates warn that delays in restoring the facility not only prolong marine contamination but also damage the island’s reputation for natural beauty and sustainability.
The case also underscores growing European Union scrutiny. Greece is already under review for compliance with the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, which requires member states to collect and properly treat sewage before discharge. Cases like that of Patmos are now being tracked at the EU level, raising the possibility of further financial penalties and reputational costs for Greece if corrective measures are not swiftly implemented
