In the heart of Greece lies the region of Attica, which includes the country’s capital, Athens, along with its surrounding areas. It is one of the most important and densely populated regions, playing a crucial role in the history, culture, and economy of the country. Now, this region is facing an unprecedented ecological challenge. Lake Mornos, once lush and full of life, is slowly drying up, and remnants of the long-submerged village of Kallio are emerging from the bottom. This might have been a reason for joy, were it not for the fact that the residents are now facing a water shortage.
Greece: Attica Facing a Crisis. The Nightmare of Water Shortage Awakes
The dramatically lowering water levels in the artificial Lake Mornos are exposing the remnants of the submerged village of Kallio. The situation is more serious than it may seem, as this reservoir supplies water to the entire region. Meanwhile, every day, residents witness the water levels dropping rapidly. In just the past two years, the water level has dropped by over 35 meters, with 18 meters of that loss occurring in the last year alone. These rapid changes to the ecosystem not only bring forgotten ruins to light but also present the community with the urgent task of finding a solution to the growing problem. The nightmare of water shortage is awakening, warns the website thetoc.gr, recalling a similar crisis in 1993.
Drought: The Nightmare of 30 Years Ago Returns. The Situation is Dramatic
In 1980, after the construction of the Mornos reservoir was completed, the residents of the village of Kallio were forced to relocate to higher ground, creating a new settlement with the same name. However, most chose to live in Athens or other large cities in Greece. Today, only 60 people live in the new Kallio, and they watch daily as the old homes, church, and school - once part of their childhood memories - emerge from the water.
For a project that solved the capital's great problem but has never brought any benefits to our region
- residents complain, as cited by thetoc.gr.
When the first houses are uncovered, the bells of water shortage begin to ring
- says Apostolis Gerodimos, the head of the Kallio community. Just like in 1993, when the water level reached a critical low, the residents are once again facing an ecological disaster.
Since we experienced a similar situation 30 years ago, it’s becoming a nightmare. If it doesn’t rain this winter, the problem will only get worse
- adds Apostolis Gerodimos. The continuous drop in lake levels due to the lack of rainfall is also pointed out by Kostas Koutsoumbas, the village's deputy mayor.
