For the fifth day large fires are burning in the Peloponnese, and some other parts of southern Greece. Tens of villages have been evacuated, and 63 people have been killed by the flames, making this by far the worst ever such disaster in the country.
Latest estimates mark the economic cost at 2 billion euros, or around 0,7% of the greek GDP. The areas burning are rural, with agricultural or touristic economy.
Apart from the actual fire itself, there is the political situation, with elections having been declared only days before the catastrophe. The government has claimed that most of the fires were not naturally caused, but by arson. The main oppositional party has sought to gain votes by accusing the government for incompetence.
The strong winds and hot/dry weather have been the largest obstacles to effectively putting out the fires, but estimates speak of possible breakthroughs in the near future, with many fronts having been put under control.
For the governing party this couldnt have been a worse timing, but i wonder if it will prove to be a bad move from the opposition (socialist party) to take advantage of the tragedy in such a haste. Previously it had been more than 3 points behind in the polls, but a late poll shows only a 0,8% lead for the governing party. (Elections are to be held in the middle of September). It would have been better if there was more unity in such a time, but with the elections pending i guess it could not happen. Still personally i did not feel good by the political game being played..
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Latest estimates mark the economic cost at 2 billion euros, or around 0,7% of the greek GDP. The areas burning are rural, with agricultural or touristic economy.
Apart from the actual fire itself, there is the political situation, with elections having been declared only days before the catastrophe. The government has claimed that most of the fires were not naturally caused, but by arson. The main oppositional party has sought to gain votes by accusing the government for incompetence.
The strong winds and hot/dry weather have been the largest obstacles to effectively putting out the fires, but estimates speak of possible breakthroughs in the near future, with many fronts having been put under control.
For the governing party this couldnt have been a worse timing, but i wonder if it will prove to be a bad move from the opposition (socialist party) to take advantage of the tragedy in such a haste. Previously it had been more than 3 points behind in the polls, but a late poll shows only a 0,8% lead for the governing party. (Elections are to be held in the middle of September). It would have been better if there was more unity in such a time, but with the elections pending i guess it could not happen. Still personally i did not feel good by the political game being played..
link
