Uranium Levels Exceed Limits in Serres Water Supply

The water supply from two sources serving approximately 2,000 connections in Serres has been deemed unsuitable for drinking and cooking due to elevated uranium levels. According to an announcement by the Municipal Water and Sewerage Company of Serres (DEYAS), the consumption ban affects seven areas within the municipality. The mayor of Serres and president of DEYAS, Barbara Mitlianga, emphasized that this issue pertains to the implementation of the European directive on water quality for human consumption, which all Greek water utilities must comply with by January 12, 2026. In response, the Ministry of Health issued a circular on April 9, 2025, urging relevant authorities to conduct preventive checks ensuring water compliance with new parameter limits, including uranium. DEYAS Serres was among the first to initiate tests across its network, identifying slightly elevated uranium levels in some areas. Immediate actions were taken to inform health authorities. Deputy regional governor of Serres, Panagiotis Spyropoulos, praised the prompt response, while DEYAS General Manager Nikos Safarikas assured citizens of ongoing updates. The exceedances were detected at the Batanion and Moravon sources, affecting around 2,000 out of the total 47,100 connections. A new announcement regarding the lifting of the ban is expected soon, following public health guidelines, alongside plans for water filtration projects to permanently address the issue.