Cyprus has approximately 2,500 bomb shelters nationwide, but current capacity is enough to protect only about 45% of the population, leaving more than half of residents without access in an emergency, authorities said.
Officials from the country’s Civil Defense confirmed that while shelter infrastructure exists, coverage remains limited. The issue has drawn renewed attention amid the latest tensions in the region prompting authorities to accelerate preparedness efforts.
Interior Ministry officials noted that shelter capacity had remained around 30% for decades and has only recently increased to 45%. A key obstacle has been the reluctance of private property owners to allocate space for shelters in buildings.
Authorities are now considering new incentives for developers to include designated shelter areas in future construction projects, in an effort to expand capacity.
At the same time, gaps remain in the early warning system. Siren installations and alert mechanisms are still under development, and in areas without coverage, officials and volunteers must notify residents directly, which can delay warnings.
Civil Defense has issued guidance for those without access to shelters, advising residents to stay inside sturdy buildings during emergencies. If outdoors, people are instructed to lie flat on the ground facing downward or seek cover in nearby ditches until the danger passes.
Emergency preparedness drills are ongoing, while a ministerial decision expected next week will introduce incentives aimed at increasing the number of available shelters.
Despite these efforts, authorities acknowledge that full population coverage remains a long-term goal, underscoring the need for continued expansion of both shelter infrastructure and warning systems.
