The Galataria fire, a devastating wildfire that broke out on Monday between the Cypriot villages of Galataria and Pentalia, has been described as “a crime” by the Director of the Forestry Department, Savvas Iezekiel, who said it resulted in the loss of centuries-old heritage.
Speaking to CNA, Iezekiel expressed deep sorrow over the destruction of an ancient olive grove that had served as a source of livelihood, culture, and pride for generations of local families. “These were trees that generations harvested, worked, and sweated for,” he said, stressing that the fire occurred on a day when a red alert had been issued.
The Galataria fire burned through an estimated 1.6 square kilometres of wild vegetation, dry grasses, and trees. Iezekiel warned that it wasn’t just olive trees that had been lost, but also the biodiversity they supported- home to Cyprus mouflons, doves, partridges, and migratory birds.
Although the fire was contained after 8pm, significant environmental damage was done. A firefighter reportedly suffered smoke inhalation and exhaustion during the suppression effort but is recovering well after treatment in Paphos General Hospital.
According to Fire Service spokesperson Andreas Kettis, the fire was first spotted by an aircraft on patrol, which made an immediate water drop. Ground forces from the Fire Service, Forestry Department, District Administration, and Game Fund, supported by volunteers and machinery, battled the flames alongside eight aircraft and reinforcements from Limassol, Larnaca, and EMAC.
Kettis confirmed that residential areas were protected and no homes were lost. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though it appears to have started along the roadside.
Authorities urged the public to be vigilant, especially in dry and windy conditions, and to ensure equipment and personal behaviour do not spark preventable disasters.
Also read: Paphos wildfire spreads rapidly amid strong winds
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