Agios Vasileios begins wildfire recovery with 1.2 million euro funding

Ten days after a devastating wildfire struck the Agios Vasileios municipality in Crete, government officials and local leaders are transitioning from emergency response to long-term recovery and reconstruction.

Vice President of the Government Kostis Hadjidakis visited the affected area to coordinate immediate aid and infrastructure projects. He announced 1.2 million euros in funding for upgrading road axes connected to the Agios Vasileios coastal road to ensure safe access and escape routes during emergencies. Additional funding has been allocated for the purchase of a new grader to support the municipal rural road network.

Local Mayor Giannis Tatarakis reported that essential services, including electricity, water, and telecommunications, were restored within three days of the fire. However, the damage remains extensive, involving tens of thousands of acres, damaged homes, businesses, and significant losses in livestock and crops. Out of 55 building inspections, 19 structures were deemed dangerous or requiring demolition.

To mitigate secondary risks such as soil erosion and flooding from upcoming rains, the government is mobilizing forestry services to conduct studies for anti-erosion and flood protection. The municipality is also working to streamline compensation processes for residents and the primary sector, having already secured 150,000 euros in emergency funding for livestock feed.