Swimming has been prohibited in several coastal areas across Attica under a circular issued on Wednesday, by Deputy Health Minister Irini Agapidaki.
The restrictions apply to all ports, permanent anchorages, shipyards and shipbreaking facilities, as well as to the coastal zone stretching from the Port of Piraeus to Perama, and from Skaramangas to Aspropyrgos Beach.
The ban also covers parts of Faliro, Mikrolimano, Lavrio and Rafina, the mouth of the Asopos River, and sea areas near stormwater outlets and wastewater treatment facilities.
According to the Health Ministry, the affected locations do not meet the required bathing water quality standards. The measure is intended to safeguard public health during the peak summer season.
The circular instructs Environmental Health Directorates, municipalities and Port Authorities to work together to enforce the restrictions by installing warning signs and informing the public about beaches deemed unsuitable for swimming.
Local authorities have also been directed to conduct regular water quality sampling and monitor potential sources of pollution, including wastewater treatment facilities and stormwater discharges.
The ministry noted that the list of affected areas may be revised as inspection results become available and coastal conditions change.
Earlier this summer, tests conducted found that 60% of Eastern Attica’s beaches were unsafe for swimming.
