Anti-erosion and initial flood protection works in the areas devastated by the major Western Attica wildfire will commence before September 15, with Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastayrou stating, among other things, that “we are moving forward with a plan, speed, and effectiveness.” According to the Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN), mapping of the burned areas has been completed, and a decision has been issued designating Piraeus Bank as the Restoration Contractor for areas under the jurisdiction of the Aigaleo Forest Authority.
Read also: €25 million for immediate flood protection works: Ready in Western Attica before the first heavy rainfall — What Stavros Papastayrou announced
The goal is to have the first essential interventions — including log dams, brush barriers, branch weaves, and plank walls where required — set in motion before the onset of the heavy rainfall season, with completion targeted by the end of the year. It is worth noting that the institution of the Restoration and Reforestation Contractor was established in 2021, enabling direct cooperation between the state and private entities for the financing and rapid implementation of protection and restoration works in fire-affected forested areas.
Western Attica: Anti-erosion and flood protection works get underway — What Stavros Papastayrou said
The relevant decision covers the financing of the required study and the immediate implementation of the necessary anti-erosion and initial flood protection works, with a total budget of €1.5 million, excluding VAT.
Specifically, the competent Forest Maps Division of the General Directorate of Forests and Forest Environment at YPEN completed the full cartographic material with the necessary geospatial data yesterday. In parallel, the relevant burn severity maps were produced using three different methodological approaches to ensure that results are comparable. Drawing on this data, combined with findings from on-site inspections, the study for the required anti-erosion and initial flood protection works is already underway.
Interventions will focus on the critical locations identified by the study, with the aim of stabilizing soil and sediment and reducing the risk of flooding in the affected areas.
How the technical implementation of the works will be carried out
The on-the-ground technical implementation of the works will be carried out by specialized contractors appointed by Piraeus Bank, in cooperation with the General Directorate of Forests and Forest Environment, in accordance with the approved study and principles of forestry science, and under the continuous supervision and guidance of the competent Forest Service.
“We are moving forward with a plan, speed, and effectiveness”
Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastayrou stated: “On August 6, we committed to moving forward without delay in the immediate restoration of Western Attica’s affected natural environment. One week later, that commitment is being put into action. The mapping has been completed, the Restoration Contractor has been appointed, the study is already underway, and works will begin before September 15. We warmly thank Piraeus Bank for their immediate response and their steadfast contribution to the protection and restoration of forest ecosystems. Following their substantial assistance in Feneos Corinthia, Penteli, and Parnitha, they are once again responding promptly — this time for Western Attica. Taking on this initiative is tangible proof that cooperation between the state and the private sector can deliver immediate and meaningful results for the protection of our natural heritage. We are moving forward with a plan, speed, and effectiveness, so that the wounds may heal as quickly as possible and Western Attica can be fortified for the days ahead.”
