Larnaca, Cyprus. The Larnaca district government (EOA) said it will immediately begin issuing further evacuation orders for dangerous buildings, with residents to receive notices from Wednesday giving them three days to vacate. The EOA said the measures are aimed at protecting human life and public safety.
Inspections and risk assessment
The EOA said it carried out 100 visual inspections across the Larnaca district, identifying 22 residential buildings as potentially dangerous. An emergency meeting between the EOA and Larnaca mayor Andreas Vyras was held after the submission of inspection results and a preliminary risk assessment of several buildings.
Officials decided to immediately initiate evacuation procedures for apartment buildings considered to pose a particularly high risk to residents.
Evacuation notices and further evaluations
The EOA said it is proceeding with the issuance of evacuation orders, adding that starting Wednesday, letters will begin to be sent to residents informing them of the need to evacuate their apartments within three days and to take measures to eliminate the danger.
It said residents of buildings under review are expected to be informed directly by local authorities regarding any precautionary measures or evacuation instructions. The EOA said evacuation procedures are, in specific cases, necessary preventive and protective measures, and that ensuring public health and safety and preventing any risk to human lives is a top priority.
Further evaluations and detailed technical inspections are continuing in line with procedures agreed with Cyprus’ Scientific and Technical Chamber (Etek), authorities said.
Temporary housing and call for state support
The EOA said it is working with Larnaca municipality to provide temporary housing through the “XeNios” program for those affected. It added that local government bodies are not equipped with the necessary infrastructure and financial resources to address large-scale housing requirements.
The EOA said coordinated intervention by the state is necessary, particularly by the ministry of interior and the deputy ministry of social welfare, to create an effective framework for social protection and temporary or permanent housing for affected residents.
How will you prepare if you receive an evacuation notice requiring you to leave your home within three days?
