The first Limassol fire support measures have been completed, with several others nearing finalisation, Commissioner for the Development of Mountain Communities Charalambos Christofinas told CNA. He said he was “quite satisfied” with the progress of decisions taken by the Council of Ministers and remains in daily contact with ministries and directors to resolve any issues that arise. “Even in special cases, we are beside the citizens,” he stressed.
Christofinas, who is coordinating the implementation of aid, confirmed that one-off financial support has already been distributed: €10,000 plus €1,000 per dependent child for households whose homes were completely destroyed, and €5,000 plus €1,000 per child for partially destroyed homes. There are 100 completely destroyed and 180 partially destroyed homes, with total payments for the former reaching €1.1 million so far. Only a handful of cases remain pending, awaiting documentation.
Civil Defence continues to process applications for rent subsidies and is currently responsible for housing 90 adults and 30 children. Faster arrangements are being sought for those in TEPAK student residences, as they must vacate by 26 August. Around 100 rent subsidy applications have already been filed.
Other Limassol fire support measures include ongoing social welfare and mental health services, which continue to visit both shelters and affected communities. In some special cases, additional financial assistance has been provided.
The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) has carried out over 300 damage assessments, with around 150 more expected by 6 September. Compensation payments for licensed homes have already begun, with roughly 50 settled by Tuesday. For unlicensed homes, owners can apply to the Housing Agency by year’s end to receive full compensation.
The Ministry of Commerce has also begun payments to restaurants, supermarkets, and small businesses for lost income and destroyed goods. Water supply in affected areas has been fully restored, and electricity supply is at 99%. Anti-flood projects are now a top priority to be completed by the end of October.
Farmers in the area have been fully compensated for one year’s lost income, with over €3 million paid to 835 applicants, and another 612 unregistered applicants also receiving aid. Additional applications remain open at local agriculture offices. Licensed tourist accommodation providers have also received compensation, with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism currently evaluating self-catering facilities. Compensation amounts include €1,000 per bed and 40% of lost income, based on 2023 or 2024 financial records.
Applications for young farmers wishing to make use of abandoned land will remain open until the end of the year.
Also read: Fire relief website launched with vital resources
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