Parliamentary committee reviews fire preparedness and prevention measures in Cyprus

The Cypriot Parliamentary Committee on Interior convened to evaluate the country's operational readiness for the 2026 fire season. Ministry of Interior official Elikkos Ilias confirmed that €13 million has been paid to victims of last year's mountain Limassol fires. The government plans to establish a new General Directorate for Civil Protection and intends to deploy an early warning system by early June. Chief Fire Officer Nikos Longinos stated that the Republic of Cyprus currently has 13 aerial assets, with two more expected by year-end, while requesting increased staffing at rural fire stations, such as Pakhna and Lefkara. Concerns were raised regarding the closure of rural stations at 7:00 PM, highlighted by recent public complaints about delayed responses to a fire in Trozena. Police Deputy Chief Panikos Stavrou emphasized improved coordination and evacuation planning, including the identification of previously unknown access routes. Civil Defense has updated the 'Polyvios' evacuation plan, while efforts to clear dry vegetation continue across rural areas.