Sicily: Anger and Despair in Niscemi After Landslide

Anger and despair are palpable in Niscemi, Sicily, after the extensive landslide that struck the city on January 25. Dozens of homes are on the brink of collapse, while parts of the road continue to subside.

More than 1,600 residents have been evacuated from their homes. The landslide, triggered by torrential rains and Cyclone Harry, has cut off sections of the city, stretching four kilometers.

Salvatrice Disca, 70, a local resident, described the situation, saying they were forced to abandon everything in a matter of minutes. Many are being housed in relatives' homes, while others are staying in temporary accommodation.

The Gela prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into possible negligence that led to the disaster. Experts point out that the landslide is a result of the climate crisis and uncontrolled construction.

Benedetta Ragusa, 41, a pizzeria owner in the area, said she lost everything as she was forced to evacuate her business.

A similar incident occurred in the area in 1790 and 1997. Despite this history, many homes were built in the area from the 1950s onwards.

Christian Mulder, professor of ecology and climate crisis, said that bad choices and uncontrolled urbanization led to the disaster.