Athens, Greece — After a summer marked by harrowing wildfires, the Greek government is collaborating with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at safeguarding the nation against future devastating wildfires. The blueprint for addressing the challenges posed by climate change is poised for unveiling at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) on September 9, just one week subsequent to Mitsotakis’ intended submission of an initial set of measures to the Parliament.
The forthcoming plan is set to reinforce successful policies that yielded positive outcomes during the recent summer while also addressing identified gaps in other areas. Among the contemplated initiatives is the bolstering of firefighting capabilities and the augmentation of firefighting personnel. Despite Greece’s current commendable ranking on the relevant index, the proposal aims to further fortify the country’s preparedness.
Noteworthy among the proposed enhancements is the acquisition of additional water-dumping helicopters, a proven effective tool within the Greek topography, in addition to new Canadair planes. These assets are envisioned to bolster firefighting effectiveness and agility in combating wildfires.
Additionally, the strategy envisions substantial advancements in the domain of fire prevention. This includes enhanced readiness during winter months, as well as novel mechanisms for safeguarding forests. Such mechanisms encompass the augmentation of personnel and increased activities within fire-prone regions.
The collaborative endeavor extends beyond governmental action, with municipal authorities, regional entities, and civil society at the forefront of proactive measures. Anticipating a heightened incidence of both summer wildfires and winter floods due to shifting climatic patterns, these entities are poised to activate multifaceted strategies.
One notable initiative involves the coordination of neighboring municipalities to safeguard Mount Ymittos. This cooperative effort involves the establishment of water reservoirs for immediate firefighting response, alongside a drone-based surveillance system and volunteer participation to enhance forest area monitoring.
However, the new plan also underscores the accountability of municipalities. Despite receiving substantial financial support, not all have adequately fulfilled their obligations in terms of preparedness for the fire season. This revelation places a renewed emphasis on ensuring that all stakeholders uphold their responsibilities in the face of increasing climate-related challenges.
