The Acheloos River diversion project in Greece is once again under scrutiny as it heads to the Council of State. Environmental organizations and regional bodies are challenging water management plans that seek to divert the river to address agricultural and water scarcity issues in Thessaly. They argue that the project violates EU environmental laws and hinders essential water management initiatives in the region. The case involves various stakeholders who are pushing to cancel the revival of the diversion project, emphasizing the outdated data and financial costs associated with the proposed works.
The petitioners highlight that the focus on the large-scale project has delayed crucial upgrades to irrigation networks and sustainable solutions for agricultural water consumption. They criticize the government for perpetuating a “mythology” around the project, leading to political inaction and a lack of progress in addressing climate-related challenges. As Greece faces an uncertain climate future, the revival of the Acheloos River diversion project serves as a stark reminder of the need for sustainable water management strategies.