A massive operation was mounted by the Fire Service and various other services to contain a fire that broke out in the Agios Sylas area of Limassol on Friday afternoon. According to an update from the Fire Service, the situation has improved significantly, and efforts are ongoing for complete containment.
Response and Evacuation
Earlier, the fire had entered a gorge between the Polemidia and Palodia areas, with wind gusts of up to 7 Beaufort recorded. The Civil Defence evacuated isolated residences, businesses, and livestock farms in the Polemidia area and near the dam. Video footage from Pano Polemidia showed the scale of the fire.
Command Centre and Resources
A forward command centre has been established on-site, and Civil Defence teams are assisting in the firefighting efforts, with forces deployed perimetrically. Three aircraft were activated for the firefighting efforts: one from the Department of Forests and two Jordanian aircraft. A total of ten fire engines from Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, Nicosia, and EMAK, two from the Department of Forests, two bulldozers, one fire engine from the Game and Fauna Service, an excavator, and a water tanker from the Provincial Administration, as well as firefighting teams, responded to the blaze.
Challenges and Ongoing Efforts
The southeastern front remains active, and ground forces are attempting to create firebreaks with water installations, despite strong winds in the area causing the fire to change directions frequently. Properties in this area have been protected. The firefighting forces are also tackling a fire in a reed bed, dry grass, and wild vegetation in Choirokitia.
Leadership and Safety Measures
The Minister of Justice and Public Order, Marios Hartsiotis, arrived at the forward command centre to oversee the operations. The fire affected a tin structure containing woodcutting equipment and piles of firewood. The Fire Chief, Nikos Longinos, also arrived at the scene to assess the situation. The Limassol-Troodos Road has been reopened to traffic.
The Police advise drivers to exercise extreme caution, maintain a safe, low speed, keep a safe distance from preceding vehicles, and follow the instructions of officers on-site.
