**Title: Cyprus Allocates €13 Million in Compensation for Wildfire Victims, Enhances Fire Preparedness**
The government of Cyprus has disbursed €13 million in compensation to individuals affected by last year's severe wildfire in the Limassol mountain region. This financial aid was detailed during a recent meeting of the House interior committee, which assessed the state’s readiness for the upcoming summer fire season. Authorities have stated that measures have been implemented to bolster the island's preparedness, including an increase in firefighting aircraft, improved surveillance, and updated emergency response plans.
Elikkos Elia, the permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, reported that a total of 758 compensation applications were submitted, all of which have been thoroughly examined. Payments have been made to 119 households in full, while 133 homes have received initial payments, 38 have received a second payment, and 14 have been granted a third payment. Additionally, 88 families have received a fourth installment to assist with rental costs while their homes are being repaired.
Elia emphasized the collaborative efforts among the ministry, district administrations, and various services to enhance fire prevention strategies. This includes clearing dry vegetation, which is critical in reducing fire risks. He also highlighted the importance of establishing a new Civil Protection Directorate, urging parliament to prioritize the necessary legislation. “We also need the help of citizens to prevent disasters,” he stated, underscoring the role of community involvement in fire prevention.
During the meeting, it was confirmed that the government had received a legal opinion from the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection regarding the CY-Alert emergency warning system, affirming its legality. National wildfire coordinator and chief fire officer Nikos Longinos reported that Cyprus has had 13 firefighting aircraft operational since May 1, with plans to add two more by the end of the year. He also noted that €3 million has been allocated to local communities for vegetation clearance, which is vital for maintaining safety in residential areas.
Longinos revealed that authorities have responded to 1,250 countryside fires since the start of the year. New surveillance cameras have been installed in rural regions of Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos, enhancing monitoring capabilities. He commended the efforts of volunteer groups and mentioned that emergency plans, known as “Pyrsos” and “Polyvios,” have been updated in preparation for the summer months. Among the proposed measures is the staffing of rural fire stations around the clock and the establishment of 14 new stations. The use of meteorological forecasting data will also aid in the proactive deployment of resources.
The chief fire officer further noted that Cyprus remains responsible for firefighting within the buffer zone in coordination with the United Nations, a task complicated by the presence of minefields in the area. Savvas Iezekiel, director of the forestry department, stated that the department has been at maximum readiness since April 1, with all fire lookout stations staffed and firefighting vehicles fully serviced. Currently, Cyprus operates three electro-optical camera systems for forest monitoring, with plans to install an additional 16 cameras in rural areas. By early 2027, the expanded network is expected to cover approximately 80 percent of the island's forests and countryside.
Iezekiel highlighted that prevention is more cost-effective than suppression, advocating for the expansion of controlled burning programs starting in the autumn. Longinos also confirmed the order of 17 new fire engines by the Limassol district administration and the recruitment of 60 new firefighters this year, who have been assigned to their home districts. The National Guard has been tasked with maintaining the wildfire response center at the Andreas Papandreou air base, ensuring readiness for potential fire outbreaks.
During the meeting, it was revealed that last year's wildfire in Farmakas was caused by a transformer from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC). Officials also raised concerns about illegal rubbish dumps, which have been linked to the ignition of some fires, with seven of the 1,250 countryside fires this year starting at such sites.
Following the discussions, committee chairman Aristos Damianou expressed cautious optimism regarding the preparations. He noted that the effectiveness of these measures would be tested in the coming summer months. “If similar challenges arise this summer, we hope the commitments made today will be translated into action,” he said, acknowledging the growing threat of wildfires as a consequence of the climate crisis.
As Cyprus gears up for the summer fire season, the government's proactive measures and community involvement will be crucial in mitigating the risks associated with wildfires.