The Greek island of Tinos has been declared in a state of emergency due to water shortages, with local authorities moving to accelerate desalination projects and prevent a potential summer water crisis.

Tinos Mayor Panagiotis Krontiras said the emergency declaration is not a response to an immediate lack of water, but a precautionary measure designed to strengthen the island’s long-term water security.

“The goal is to make clear that Tinos will not run out of water this summer,” he said, describing the emergency status as a tool to overcome bureaucratic delays and quickly implement solutions.

Desalination units to be installed faster

According to the mayor, the declaration will allow the island to move faster with the rental and installation of two desalination units.

Funding for the projects was approved by the Ministry of Island Policy, but Krontiras said normal procedures could have delayed the process by several months, meaning the units would only become available during winter when demand is lower.

With the emergency framework now in place, he said the desalination units are expected to be operational within 15 to 20 days.

The mayor explained that the measure also applies to other areas facing similar problems, allowing faster action when emergency conditions are declared.

Proposal to restrict private pools

Alongside desalination plans, Tinos officials have raised a proposal to reduce water consumption from private swimming pools on the island.

Krontiras said he believes private pools should be phased out under current conditions, arguing that widespread use of pools places additional pressure on available water resources.

“We believe, and we want, private pools to be abolished in Tinos,” he said, adding that changes to the legislation should be considered.

The mayor proposed that existing pools should instead be filled with seawater or supplied through a separate desalination system dedicated specifically to pool use.

He also pointed to limiting water use for gardens with grass at holiday homes as another possible measure to reduce consumption.