Limassol Fire: Human Losses and Ecological Disaster

Last week, a tragic fire struck the mountainous region of Limassol, causing human losses and widespread destruction. An elderly couple was found charred, and entire villages were destroyed.

According to environmental specialist K. Feraios, the fire is worse than those of 1974 due to adverse climatic conditions and poor environmental policies, leading Cyprus towards desertification. He also criticized the government of Nikos Christodoulides for environmental disasters.

The Electricity Authority announced that 80 kilometers of overhead network, 650 poles and transformers were destroyed. The agricultural sector also suffered severe damage, with thousands of acres burned and animals lost. Income loss will be paid for one year to those affected.

The Department of Antiquities recorded damage to 62 ancient monuments and archaeological sites, including the watermill in Kissousa, the medieval bridge in Potamiou and churches in Souni-Zanatjia.

While various protocols such as PYRSOS, IKAROS and HFAISTOS were activated, questions are raised about their effectiveness under unprecedented conditions. The need for a human factor in managing such situations is also emphasized.