The Larnaca District Local Government Organisation (DLGO) has issued a stern warning regarding the Filanta apartment complex, urging owners to initiate hazard-removal procedures or face potential evacuation. Following a deadline extension, DLGO president Angelos Hatzikyriacos emphasised the urgency of addressing serious structural concerns.
Photo: en.philenews.com
- As Larnaca grapples with a record of 1,050 dangerous buildings, with 300 families residing in collapse-risk structures, the urgency for effective intervention has never been clearer.
Notices were posted on the building last Friday, with a three-working-day window for owners to respond. Hatzikyriacos confirmed that while the initial deadline had passed, an additional two to three days would be granted to those making efforts to comply. Owners who promptly appoint an engineer and present a viable plan will be afforded extra time, while those who neglect to act face possible court action after evacuation.
Photo: en.philenews.com
Filanta: Concerns Raised by Recent Tragedy
The Filanta complex, situated in Larnaca’s port area, is a significant concern due to its size and the number of residents involved. Comprising five blocks with 79 apartments and ten commercial units, it houses over 90 owners and is the largest building in the region deemed at risk of collapse.
This issue gained heightened visibility following a tragic incident on May 27, when a foreign national died and two others were injured after jumping from balconies during a raid by the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Shocking Living Conditions Uncovered
During inspections, DLGO officers uncovered alarming living conditions within the Filanta complex. Hatzikyriacos described the situation as appalling, with many apartments occupied by foreign nationals, some housing as many as ten people. Residents were reported to be illegally drawing electricity, indicating a broader pattern of violations within the building.
“There are violations upon violations in this building,” Hatzikyriacos stated, highlighting the need for multiple agencies to collaborate in addressing the complex challenges. He stressed that the Police must identify the residents, Larnaca Municipality should tackle sanitation issues, and the Electromechanical Service along with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) must resolve illegal electrical connections.
Future Actions Planned by DLGO
Looking ahead, the DLGO plans to extend similar initiatives to other large apartment buildings in Larnaca identified as dangerous. Hatzikyriacos insists that coordinated action is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of residents across the area.
As Larnaca grapples with a record of 1,050 dangerous buildings, with 300 families residing in collapse-risk structures, the urgency for effective intervention has never been clearer.
