DEYAH contends with a problem that tugs at both daily life and the vibrancy of the wine scene—Heraklion’s water supply. Year after year, the city faces a puzzle of dry summers and limited water sources, forcing a scramble when resources sink to their lowest.
Recently, DEYAH turned to the local Water Directorate with a plan: three new main drilling sites near Agios Myronas and Vassilies, plus backup drills in communities like Profitis Ilias and Kyparissi. The hope is simple: unlock more water and relieve the pressure on the aging supply system.
But here’s the sober truth. Even if drills break ground tomorrow, the output—about 200 cubic meters an hour—falls short. Daily demand still outpaces availability by about 5,000 cubic meters. No matter how quickly the rigs turn, this fix will only patch a larger gap.
A Long Wait and Empty Pockets
There’s another hurdle, equally stark: the funding simply isn’t there. The Ministry of the Interior contributed just 150,000 euros, barely a sip compared to what’s needed. Drilling deep on Crete, often to depths of 400 meters, can cost upwards of 200,000 euros per well. Multiply that by three, and the price tag bubbles near a million euros—far beyond current resources.
DEYAH’s president, Giorgos Vourexakis, lays it out candidly: even if construction starts soon, new wells might not be ready until the summer of 2026. Those dreaming of relief this year will have to wait longer.
To cope, DEYAH looks to the broader island for answers. Alternative water sources could strengthen the city’s hand, especially if the worst drought scenarios play out. Two large supply projects in Crete have been floated as possible strategies for long-term drought management.
The Blueprint for Survival
- Heraklion faces chronic and complex water shortages, peaking in dry months or during strain on local sources.
- DEYAH proposes three main new drilling sites and several backup sites in nearby villages.
- State funding covers only a fraction of real costs, leaving a significant shortfall.
- New wells might not be operational until mid-2026.
- The city needs additional water sources and smarter infrastructure.
- The city’s plan includes measures such as improving infrastructure, reducing pipeline leaks, and ramping up water reuse.
- Continued support from the state remains essential for meeting both current needs and future demand.
From Vineyard to Table: Why Every Drop Matters
In a city where every glass of wine reflects countless hands and hours, the story of water is the story of Heraklion itself. The effort to modernize supply lines, cut losses, and tap new sources isn’t just policy paperwork. It sits at the root of daily comfort—watering fields, cooling cellars, cleaning tables, and filling glasses.
And as DEYAH braces for another season of tight margins, the call for resourcefulness echoes through quiet vineyards and bustling street cafés. The water may not arrive today or this year, but every step—from breaking ground on a well to tightening a pipe—carries hope that no one here will be left thirsty.
Heraklion’s water troubles spill far beyond policy documents, soaking into the soil and shaping the city’s rhythm. Every drop truly counts for those who cherish what grows under Heraklion’s sun.
Source: Έντονη ανησυχία για την υδροδότηση του Ηρακλείου – Νέες γεωτρήσεις αλλά ανεπαρκή κονδύλια
