Dinos Haritopulos: Urgent and coordinated actions needed for fire protection in our region
Fire Incidents and Current Situation
In his written statement, Haritopulos addressed the fires that occurred in Sofular, Kuşlanlı, Kesir, and Baldıran, which caused significant damage within a short period. He emphasized the high risk of fire in the municipality due to the extensive forest areas, large land area, numerous settlements, extensive road network, frequent vehicle and machinery traffic, strong winds, rain, and drought.
Recommendations for Fire Prevention
Haritopulos commended those involved in extinguishing the recent fires and made the following suggestions based on current data:
Enhanced Measures and Coordination: Responsible authorities should promptly take additional or new measures and improve existing ones to better protect the region from fires. This includes increasing initiatives and actions for fire prevention.
Increased Funding and Improved Organization: The Maronia-Sapes Municipality should increase its fire prevention funds and better organize and coordinate its services in this sector.
Infrastructure Development: Build and expand fire prevention tanks and water transport networks where they do not exist, ensuring adequate water supply everywhere.
Regional and Municipal Cooperation: The Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region, along with the Eastern Macedonia Thrace Regional Municipalities Association (ΠΕΔ ΑΜΘ), should adopt proposals to provide municipalities with the necessary equipment to meet urgent needs. This includes road works, water reservoirs, water transportation, clearings, etc., in mountain areas. Additionally, a drone should be provided for continuous monitoring in the Maronia-Sapes Municipality.
Emergency Medical Services: The National Emergency Aid Center (EKAB) should establish a base in the Maronia-Sapes Municipality with a fully staffed and equipped ambulance available 24/7.
Healthcare Improvements: The Ministry of Health should adequately staff the Sapes Health Center.
Law Enforcement Enhancements: The Police Department should improve and strengthen the Sapes Police Station and the Sapes Border Guard Unit.
Military Involvement: The army should increase patrols during the fire season and be more flexible in allocating and operating machinery during fires.
Ministry of Interior Support: The Ministry of Interior should significantly increase grants for fire protection in the municipality and allow for the hiring of seasonal personnel for fire protection from May to October.
Climate Change and Civil Protection Ministry Projects: Design and construct projects for better accessibility of firefighting vehicles to the Yassikoy Dam, both by land and air, including infrastructure improvements like water pumping routes to make the dam more useful in fire situations.
Additional Fire Stations and Observation Posts: Construct more fire stations and observation posts within the Maronia-Sapes Municipality.
Haritopulos concluded by stating that these are just a few of the urgent measures needed to protect the people, property, and natural wealth in the region. He emphasized that these steps should be taken immediately, as the fire protection season is only halfway through, and the climatic conditions remain unfavorable.
