Water contamination prompts state of emergency in 3 Greek towns

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) - Greek authorities have declared a state of emergency in three towns in northern Greece over water contamination, local media reported Tuesday.

Local officials banned the use of tap water for drinking and cooking after dangerously high levels of uranium were detected in the water supply, according to the Greek daily Kathimerini.

The declaration affects around 2,000 households in the communities of Serres, Lefkona and Christos. Drinking water is being distributed via tankers and bottled supplies, the report said.

Authorities are still reportedly unsure about the source of the uranium contamination.

The emergency declaration also allows local officials to access emergency funding to fast-track repairs to the water supply system.

“The safety and health of our citizens is our top priority,” Serres Mayor Varvara Mitliaga said in a statement. “This declaration allows us to act swiftly and effectively to address the problem.”

The state of emergency will remain in effect until June 26.