The discovery of three dead dolphins washed up on the shores of Pachia Ammos beach in Chania has sparked significant concern among local environmentalists. Within a matter of weeks, the beach, renowned for its natural beauty, has become a troubling site for marine life.

Fotis Pontikakis, a member of the Chania ecological initiative and head of environmental education in Vamos, expressed his alarm: “It’s unusual to have three dead dolphins on the same beach in such a short time. This is not an everyday occurrence,” he told SKAI. Pontikakis highlighted a growing concern that the marine mammals could be impacted by increased human activity, including military exercises and underwater explosions. While the Greek Navy has responded to complaints by implementing certain measures, he noted that foreign military exercises, particularly from the Turkish Navy in the Aegean, continue to exacerbate the problem.

To address these issues, Pontikakis suggested stronger protective measures for critical habitats, such as the Greek trench, which plays a key role in supporting dolphins and whales. “Designating protected areas, enforcing lower boat speeds, and implementing surveillance are vital steps,” he emphasized.

The situation in Pachia Ammos is further complicated by local development plans. The municipality intends to build a sewage treatment plant just a few meters from a vital turtle nesting site, raising additional concerns for both marine life and the surrounding ecosystem.