**Fire Near Paphos Village Contained After Burning Three Hectares**
A wildfire that ignited near the village of Neo Chorio in Paphos on Friday morning has been successfully brought under control, following a rapid response from firefighting teams. The fire, which started at approximately 11:13 AM, burned around three hectares of land that included olive and carob trees before being fully contained by 12:30 PM.
The firefighting operation involved a coordinated effort from the forestry department, which deployed 30 personnel and six fire engines to the scene. In addition, eight members of the fire service joined the effort, bringing three additional fire engines, while two bulldozers and two tractors were also utilized to aid in the containment of the blaze.
To further enhance their firefighting capabilities, authorities dispatched four aircraft from the National Guard’s firefighting unit. These aerial resources played a crucial role in suppressing the flames and preventing further spread of the fire.
Following the successful containment of the wildfire, officials indicated that firefighting forces would remain in the area to monitor the site closely. This precautionary measure aims to address any potential flare-ups that could arise from the smoldering remnants of the fire.
As of now, the cause of the wildfire remains under investigation, with authorities working to determine the factors that led to the outbreak. The swift response and effective coordination among various firefighting units have been credited with minimizing damage and preventing the fire from spreading to nearby properties or more extensive areas of vegetation.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks associated with wildfires, particularly in regions with significant agricultural land and natural vegetation. As the dry season progresses, local authorities continue to emphasize the importance of fire safety and vigilance to prevent future incidents.