Investigation Launched After Quarry Explosives Ignite Limassol Forest Fire
In a concerning turn of events, a large fire broke out in the Limassol State Forest on Wednesday morning, causing significant ecological damage. The blaze, which continues to rage, is believed to have been sparked by the detonation of explosives within a quarry in the Monagrouli community by technicians from the Mines Service.
The decision to destroy explosives in such conditions—amidst high temperatures, humidity, and winds—without adequate safety measures has come under severe scrutiny. Critics argue that this oversight could be the disaster’s catalyst. This practice of disposing of explosives in the same quarry has been ongoing for years, despite persistent safety concerns.
Philenews reports that sources close to the Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panayiotou, reveal her intent to initiate an administrative investigation into the incident. The Minister, alongside Andreas Gregoriou, Director General of Agriculture and Rural Development, witnessed the severity of the situation firsthand after a mechanical issue with her vehicle necessitated travel to the site in a police car from Kofinou station.
The firefighting response has been robust, with ground forces, a Department of Forests firefighting aircraft, a police helicopter, and a British Bases helicopter all deployed to combat the inferno. Initially, only one aerial asset was available, but as the fire’s intensity grew, additional support was called in. The community of Vasa Kellakiou has been advised to evacuate as a precautionary measure.
The incident has raised questions about the protocols surrounding explosive disposal and forest fire prevention, especially during vulnerable weather conditions. As the flames continue to be tackled by emergency services, the community awaits the outcomes of the investigation with hopes for improved safety measures in the future.
