In the characteristics and particularity of the fire in Evros, the firefighting forces that operate and their further reinforcement if deemed necessary, the operational coordination of all the agencies involved in the extinguishing effort, the investigation in a second time of the causes of the occurrence of the catastrophic phenomenon and also in the required the day after the fire, restoration works, stated the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Vassilis Kikilias, in his statements from Alexandroupolis airport.

The image of the fiery front

“Indeed we are talking about a very large perimeter in which two fires joined, of Alexandroupoli and Dadia and in which perimeter our forces are operating” said Mr. Kikilias after the flight he made with Super Puma over the affected area.

Further strengthening of firefighting forces

The Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection assured that in the context of the effort to control the fire and in the coming days there will be further reinforcement with air and ground forces despite the fact, as he said, that a very large part of the Fire Brigade’s forces are already operating in Evros , ground and air.

He noted that the causes of the event and of the specific fire will be investigated, as is the case with all major fires in the country, while the operational evaluation of its response will also follow.

“There is indeed this imaginary straight line in which 14 fires started that day” said Mr. Kikilias, adding that this is something that the competent agencies will investigate and the time until the completion of the investigation is not suitable for speculation or comments. “Today is the time of battle for everyone and this is what counts. We will continue to be here all those who must either coordinate – the generals – or attempt…he said characteristically, thanking all those who attempt or assist in the extinguishing work.

Regarding the day after the fire, Mr. Kikilias said “But after this very big effort comes a very long preparation, a very long discussion and decisions that have to do with prevention, forest protection, with the zones that must to be created, with the control of the two levels of Local Government that has to do with the anti-flood projects that will be required, fire protection, prevention projects and the way in which we will upgrade and move forward the operational way in which we react to great challenges of the future. Some talk about climate change, some others about climate crisis, some scientists even about climate collapse. What is certain is that the country, Europe and the planet are facing many challenges and we must appear more ready and more efficient for what the future will bring”, concluded the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.

It is noted that at approximately 10:00 a.m. Mr. Kikilias participated in a meeting held in a hall of the “Demokritos” airport of Alexandroupoli where he was informed, among other things, about the active fronts, the occurrence of several outbreaks in Dadia and their successful treatment by the fire brigade as well as the fire front which could not be contained and extended, for the constant movement of forces due to the constant change of winds and the important contribution of the Army.