Environmental organisations and civic groups in the north are on alert, as claims intensify over alleged manoeuvres placing the environmentally protected character of Alakati Beach, near Agios Amvrosios in Kyrenia district, in immediate danger.
According to a report by the newspaper Bugün Kıbrıs, the UBP‑DP‑YDP coalition is reportedly moving towards changing the status of the area, with the aim of allocating sections of it for residential or commercial development.
Decisions behind closed doors
The report reveals that while the Environmental Department has not conducted any official study, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment has allegedly enlisted external academics to prepare a report justifying the declassification of part of the protected zone.
Questions have also been raised by the recent dismissal of the director of the Environmental Department, Abdullah Aktolgali, which coincided with the start of discussions concerning Alakati, reinforcing suspicions of attempts to override internal resistance.
Building permits within the protected zone
The Chamber of Engineers (KTMMOB) has also entered the debate forcefully, condemning the issuance of illegal planning permits within the protected area. In a written statement, the chamber said a building found to have received an irregular permit renewal was sealed last week by local authorities.
However, the issue appears to be wider, as the chamber identified three additional constructions nearby whose permits were also renewed in violation of legislation. Engineers stressed that they will pursue legal action against those responsible for abuse of office.
Investment pressure
At the same time, strong interest from investment groups has heightened concerns that the pristine area could be transformed into a tourist resort. An investment website describes Alakati not only as a natural attraction but also as an area with “exciting investment prospects.”
The site states that the area’s natural beauty, combined with rising popularity among tourists, makes Alakati an attractive location for property investment, offering opportunities for personal use, holiday homes or investment properties. It adds that nearby development is increasing, with new properties offering modern amenities while remaining close to the beach’s natural landscape.
A habitat of international importance
Alakati is not merely a beach, but one of the most significant habitats in the Mediterranean for the reproduction of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). The area was designated environmentally protected in 1997 and, beyond turtles, hosts rare dune systems, Posidonia seagrass meadows and serves as a passage for dozens of migratory bird species.
The landscape, defined by characteristic coastal rock formations known as Troullia and vast sand dunes, has long constituted a unique ecosystem. Notably, part of the area was historically known as Gehennem Deresi or River of Hell, due to the scorching sand that prevented cultivation, inadvertently preserving its wild, untouched character.
A defining landmark of the area remains Kouli’s Pit. In the vast Hatzikoullis Sands, the discovery of fresh water within the sand, just metres from the shoreline, was once considered miraculous and for decades provided a vital source of life for people and animals alike.
