fire victims — Fire victims in mountainous Limassol are receiving essential government support as recovery efforts continue following the devastating wildfires that broke out on July 23. Mountains commissioner Charalambos Christofinas confirmed on Tuesday that several cabinet decisions have been fully implemented to aid the affected residents.
Christofinas, tasked with overseeing the recovery measures, expressed satisfaction with the progress being made. He maintains daily communication with relevant ministries to address any emerging issues swiftly. “We stand by the people,” he asserted, emphasising the government’s commitment to the affected communities.
Compensation for families has been a priority, with those who lost their homes receiving a lump sum of €10,000, along with €2,000 for each dependent child. Families whose properties were partially damaged have been granted €5,000 and €1,000 per dependent child. In total, 100 homes were completely destroyed, while 180 suffered partial damage. The total compensation paid for the total losses has reached €1.1 million.
While most residents have received their payments, a few individuals are still awaiting funds as their details have not been fully processed. Civil Defence continues to accept applications for rent subsidies via village councils, currently housing 90 adults and 30 children displaced by the fires. Those residing in Tepak dormitories are prioritised for accommodation, as they must vacate by August 26.
Efforts are underway to identify more permanent housing solutions for those affected. The technical chamber (Etek) has conducted over 300 assessments of damaged buildings, with an additional 150 assessments expected to be completed by the September 6 deadline. The commerce ministry has also initiated payments to restaurants and small businesses, including supermarkets, for lost income and destroyed stock.
Restoration of essential services has been largely successful, with water supply fully restored and electricity restored to 99 per cent of affected areas. Christofinas highlighted the importance of flood prevention projects, which are essential given the bare hillsides left by the wildfire. These projects are expected to be completed by the end of October.
The agricultural sector has not been overlooked, with 835 farmers receiving full compensation amounting to over €3 million. Additionally, 612 applicants not registered with the agricultural payment organisation have also been compensated. Farmers who have yet to apply for compensation are encouraged to do so, while applications for new farmers to cultivate abandoned land will be accepted by the year’s end.
Tourist establishments have also been eligible for compensation for lost income. The deputy ministry for tourism is currently assessing licensed self-catering accommodations, offering €1,000 per bed and covering 40 per cent of income loss. Applicants will need to submit their financial records for 2023 and 2024 to qualify for assistance.
The Limassol wildfire, which lasted three days, resulted in the tragic loss of two elderly lives and left a significant mark on the community, destroying hundreds of homes and businesses across an area of 124km², equivalent to over one per cent of the island.