Fire contained in Paphos state forest

The fire in the Elitjies area of the state forest in Paphos was contained after an all-night effort, according to the spokesperson for the Department of Forests, George Constantinou. Approximately 20 acres of pine forest and wild vegetation were burnt, based on initial estimates.

In today's statements to CNA, Mr. Constantinou mentioned that the fire has been delimited, and aerial firefighting operations resumed with the first light of the day. Specifically, seven aerial units have been operating since 5:47 am, and the two aircraft from the British bases are on standby. Fortunately, there were no rekindlings, only a few hotspots, Mr. Constantinou added.

The fire broke out at 6:30 pm on Monday in the heart of Cyprus's densest forest area, north of the Cedar Valley.

The Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Petros Xenophontos, closely monitored the fire's development from the General Coordination Center at Athalassa, while the Director of the Department of Forests rushed to the coordination center set up near the fire.

Yesterday, Minister Xenophontos told CNA that the situation regarding the fire in the Elitjies area of the state forest in Paphos has improved and is under control. When asked about it, he emphasized that all firefighting forces were immediately coordinated since the fire broke out at around 6:30 pm on Monday.

Two of the firefighters sustained minor injuries during the firefighting efforts and received first aid from an ambulance in the area. They have been discharged. The third firefighter, who suffered a leg injury, was taken to the hospital for examination by an orthopedic doctor.

George Constantinou, the spokesperson for the Department of Forests, assured that their injuries were not serious, stating that their top priority is human lives.

The two firefighters, who received immediate assistance from an ambulance on-site, have been discharged, while the third firefighter is awaiting examination by an orthopedic doctor.

[This article was translated from its Greek original]