There is sufficient rainfall on the island, even in a "dry" year, to supply all our needs provided that it is exploited well and that all wastage and unnecessary profligate use are eliminated. This has not been done in the past and this is a major reason why the crisis exists today. The crisis will continue for at least a decade after the water consumed is less than the supply from all sources, possibly longer where aquifers have been contaminated with salt water, especially if the winter rainfall continues to be under average. For this reason, we urgently need to import water and to install new small and large desalination plants, so that we become steadily less dependent on natural water, to allow the latter to restore itself. When all the rivers which were perennial 30 or 40 years ago flow again all the year round, and when all the gullies that are today perpetually dry flow with water in winter, we shall have won the fight. The battle will not be cheap but, if it is not fought mightily, the quality of life in Cyprus will certainly drop.