WRITTEN QUESTION E-4610/09 by Kriton Arsenis (S-D) to the Commission

Subject: Environmental deterioration of the river Aliakmon

The river Aliakmon flows through the prefectures of , , , and and then into the Thermaic Gulf. The river provides water for the city of Thessaloniki. The Aliakmon gorge forms part of the Natura 2000 network, as does the delta, which is protected under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance and has been identified as a special protection area under the Birds Directive 79/409/EEC1.

However, studies by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki show that the status of the water in the river ranges from moderate to poor. In particular, the excessive pumping of water, indiscriminate use of pesticides and incomplete processing of industrial waste are having a significant effect on water quality. The water was found to be of good quality at only two of the 13 sampling stations on the Aliakmon, whilst water quality at the remaining sampling stations ranged from moderate to poor.

According to the Kozani ecological movement, the water in the river has also been contaminated with asbestos from the abandoned mines at Zidani. In addition, uncontrolled sand extraction poses a serious problem in many places along the river bed.

Moreover, encroachments into the land along the riverbanks for the purpose of farming and illegal hunting are a frequent occurrence. In this context, can the Commission answer the following questions:

1. Is it aware of the poor state of the river? In particular, has provided information on the problem of uncontrolled sand extraction?

2. Does it believe that the provisions laid down by Community law on environmental protection are being respected?

3. Have any studies or proposals been submitted on the problem posed by asbestos residues in the river and their probable effects?

4. What obligations does Greece have under the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC2)?

1 OJ L 103, 25.4.1979, p. 1. 2 OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1.

790615.EN PE 428.827