pyrga fire — pyrga fire — A major fire broke out in Pyrga, Larnaca district, shortly after midday, leading to significant concerns as it swept through the gardens of homes and damaged a farm building. The rapid response of emergency services played a crucial role in controlling the situation.
Pyrga fire: Swift Action from Emergency Services
As the blaze erupted, the Forestry Department activated the Astrapi emergency response plan without delay. Spokesman Glafkos Kyriakou emphasised the seriousness of the incident, stating, “This is a major incident,” but expressed optimism about the quick actions taken by firefighting crews, which likely prevented further devastation.
Extensive Resources Deployed
To combat the fire, five aircraft were dispatched to assist in the firefighting efforts. In total, 11 vehicles and two tracked vehicles from the Forestry Department were sent to the scene, alongside fire service crews from Larnaca and Nicosia, who provided four fire engines. A collaborative force of approximately forty Forestry Department personnel, supported by ten Fire Service personnel and volunteers, engaged in the operation.
Fire Contained by Late Afternoon
The fire, which consumed around 10 hectares of pine trees, low wild vegetation, reed beds, and dry grass, was brought fully under control shortly after 4 pm. Kyriakou noted that the effective response from the teams involved played a pivotal role in mitigating the impact of the fire and protecting the surrounding community.
A Community Affected
The flames threatened residential properties, causing alarm among local residents. Fortunately, due to the prompt action of emergency responders, the fire was contained before it could cause more extensive damage or threaten lives. The community remains grateful for the swift and effective intervention that averted a potentially more catastrophic outcome.
