Water from Nestos River to irrigate İskeçe’s lowlands
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace is making progress on a major infrastructure project to transfer and distribute water from the Nestos (Karasu) River to the agricultural lowlands of Xanthi (İskeçe). The initiative aims to enhance irrigation in the area, reduce pressure on underground water resources, and promote sustainable agricultural production.
Under the project, water will be drawn from the Okçular (Tochouroi) Dam and distributed across the region’s farmlands. The plan includes the modernization of existing irrigation infrastructure, the construction of new pumping stations, and the installation of extensive pipeline networks to ensure efficient water delivery. The system will also integrate smart irrigation technologies, including remote control mechanisms and meteorological data tools.
The new network will feature five pumping stations and seven irrigation reservoirs, all designed to support more efficient and environmentally friendly farming practices.
Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis highlighted that the project will boost agricultural productivity, lower costs for farmers, and help preserve ecological balance. He emphasized that the initiative is one of Greece’s most significant agricultural infrastructure investments and is financed under European Union programs.
The total cost of the project is estimated at €54,133,729. Governor Topsidis clarified that no funds will be drawn from the regional administration's budget, as its role is limited to project supervision and oversight.
