Manolis Mikelis says Sarakiniko has lifeguards, buoys and warning signs, but a boat crews' union warns of serious safety gaps at the site where two tourists drowned last summer.

Following the Ministry of Environment and Energy's order to halt the construction, the Ministry of Tourism was also compelled to take an official stance on the matter.

A furor erupted this week with news and photos showing construction at the famed Sarakiniko Beach; contractor reportedly had 7 valid building permits, which isle's mayor decries in comments to Mega Channel

Sarakiniko Beach is one of the country's natural wonders and among the most Instagrammed locations in the world.