Investigation Launched into Warehouse Flooding Incident
In the wake of a costly hailstorm that struck the industrial zone of Strovolos, Nicosia district, Health Minister Michael Damianos has called for an expedited report on the rental process of the affected pharmaceutical services warehouse. The storm, which occurred on March 18, resulted in significant damages, with an estimated cost of €880,000 and the spoilage of 105,401 packages of 149 different pharmaceuticals.
Damianos, addressing the media, outlined that the report will chronicle the warehouse’s operational history since its initial contract in 2003. With a deadline set for April 8, he emphasized the urgency of receiving the report to understand the full scope of the incident.
Proactive measures are underway, as Damianos confirmed the initiation of procedures to relocate the warehouse. He stressed that relocating the remaining pharmaceuticals is a top priority and assured that public tender processes would be adhered to in securing a new facility that meets modern drug storage standards.
The Health Minister also spoke about the damage assessment efforts that have been active since the day of the hailstorm. An ad hoc committee is nearing the completion of its evaluation. Despite the damages incurred, Damianos reassured that there is no current drug shortage and that maintaining an adequate supply remains a central goal of the ministry.
During a recent House health committee meeting, it was disclosed that the March 18 incident was not isolated; two additional water leaks had occurred at the same warehouse last year. Elena Panayiotopoulou, head of the health ministry’s pharmaceutical services, highlighted that oversight of medicine warehouses had shifted to the ministry’s purchasing and supplies directorate in 2017.
Panayiotopoulou also referenced a 2019 report revealing various deficiencies at the premises, including a worn floor, absence of temperature monitoring, lack of insect traps, cluttered space, and a compromised roof. Additionally, it was noted that areas designated for recalled drugs were found unlocked. Since then, no further inspections had been conducted until this recent event.
As investigations continue, Damianos assured that all necessary steps are being taken to prevent future incidents and maintain the integrity of Cyprus’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
