Famagusta Province in Cyprus might be topping the charts in tourism revenue, but its infrastructure is like a broken umbrella in a rainstorm – not much help when you really need it. According to the Statistical Service, Famagusta is raking in the cash from tourists, with places like Paralimni and Ayia Napa bringing in an average of €1,663 per visitor over 8.7 days in 2022. That’s more than double what Limassol and Paphos are seeing.
But here’s the catch: while the tourists are flooding in, the development projects to make Famagusta even more awesome are kind of stuck in the mud. It’s like throwing a party but forgetting to buy snacks – a major buzzkill.
Local legislators are shouting from the rooftops about it, saying that essential projects are moving slower than a sloth on a Sunday morning. The Potamos Liopetriou redevelopment, for example, was supposed to be done by March 2023, but now it’s only halfway there and asking for more time. Talk about procrastination.
And don’t even get me started on the coastal beautification project. It’s been stuck in the mud for so long; I’m starting to think it’s become a part of the scenery.
Roadworks are facing the same fate. A renovation project started last October, and they’re saying it won’t be finished for another two-and-a-half years. I mean, by then, we might have flying cars.
And let’s not forget about Frenaros. They’ve been planning to give the place a facelift for ages, but it seems like it’s just been left on read. Same goes for Sotira’s central square – they’ve got the budget, but where’s the action?
The problem isn’t just the lack of projects; it’s the lack of planning. Municipalities have been waiting for their local plans since 2014, like waiting for a bus that never shows up. And while they’re waiting, they’re dealing with water shortages like it’s going out of style.
So, while Famagusta might be the belle of the tourism ball, it’s like Cinderella before the fairy godmother showed up – lots of potential but in desperate need of a makeover.
Quote of the Day: “In the realm of planning, patience is not just a virtue, it’s a necessity.” – Unknown
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