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Heraklion's Waste Privatization Backfires: Higher Fees, Worse Service

Tuesday, 23 June 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Heraklion is experiencing disruptions to its waste collection service following the transition to a new private contractor. The Deputy Mayor of Sanitation acknowledged on local radio that vehicle breakdowns, registration delays, and unresolved contractual issues are causing collection slowdowns across the city. Residents are already paying higher municipal fees introduced alongside the privatization, despite the contractor not yet being fully operational. Improvements are expected to take time. For visitors, some streets and public areas in Heraklion may see delayed rubbish collection in the short term, particularly in residential neighborhoods. Tourist-heavy zones such as the port area and city center are generally prioritized, but travelers should be aware that conditions may be less tidy than usual in other parts of the city during this transition period.

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