Greece Announces €4.7 Million Emergency Fund and Recovery Plans for Wildfire-Ravaged Municipalities

08:16 20/8/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

In response to the devastating wildfire that swept through Northeast Attica on August 11th, the Greek government has announced an emergency fund of 4.7 million euros to assist affected municipalities.

This financial aid is just one component of a comprehensive recovery plan designed to address the widespread

damage to infrastructure and properties.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will meet with local government representatives today in Penteli to discuss the full extent of the destruction and outline planned recovery measures.

Environment Minister Theodoros Skylakakis will present detailed maps illustrating the burned areas, helping to assess the environmental damage. Deputy Minister of Civil Protection Christos Triantopoulos will provide updates on building inspections in the eight affected municipalities, revealing that 55 out of 277 surveyed structures are unsafe and will be demolished.

The government is prioritizing swift action, including immediate housing assistance for affected residents and rapid restoration efforts.

A platform will soon be launched to facilitate housing assistance applications. Environmental restoration is also a key focus, with specific timelines, goals, and funding attached to each measure.

Government officials stress the importance of collaboration with local communities and authorities to ensure the effective implementation of recovery plans. They also aim to discuss further protective measures for areas where forests meet residential zones.

While acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change, the government is committed to continuously improving the civil protection system, authorities say.

Despite significant progress, including increased firefighting personnel and aerial resources, officials recognize the need for ongoing enhancements to effectively manage future disasters.

By Yiannis Kantelis

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