dangerous buildings — The Larnaca district government has identified 1,084 buildings as potentially dangerous, prompting significant concern about public safety in the area.
- The Larnaca district government has identified 1,084 buildings as potentially dangerous, prompting significant concern about public safety in the area.
This alarming revelation comes with an estimated cost of €5.94 million required to address the safety risks associated with these structures. The Larnaca district government (EOA) emphasised the importance of systematic data updating, on-site inspections, and citizen reports in compiling this register.
According to the EOA, private civil engineers have conducted 310 visual inspections of buildings within the district. The findings are currently under evaluation, with 204 buildings classified as dangerous. More concerning is the classification of 116 structures in the highest risk category, which are deemed to present a visible risk of collapse.
To mitigate these dangers, the EOA has initiated 31 interventions aimed at reducing risks. These efforts include fencing off hazardous buildings either by the EOA or the property owners themselves. Notably, three buildings have already been demolished at the owners’ request following EOA intervention.
In addition, the situation continues to evolve, with eight buildings officially declared dangerous, and procedures underway to classify another 10. In one instance, a temporary evacuation order was enacted after property owners did not comply with directives from the authorities.
The technical assessments conducted on 209 of these buildings have estimated that the required safety works will cost around €5.94 million. This figure underscores the magnitude of the challenge facing the EOA as they strive to manage and rectify the situation.
The EOA has urged property owners to “immediately cooperate” with authorities to take necessary measures to mitigate the risks posed by their buildings. This call to action highlights the collective responsibility in maintaining safety standards.
In its statement, the EOA reaffirmed its commitment to implementing a comprehensive management plan. It aims to strengthen controls and collaborate with all stakeholders to effectively tackle the pressing issue of dangerous buildings.
