The Civil Protection mechanism of the Region of South Aegean is being significantly strengthened with the start of deliveries of new vehicles and construction equipment as part of the national program “AIGIS,” implemented by the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.
The Region has already received 9 pieces of construction equipment, with 3 more expected to be delivered, substantially strengthening its operational response and emergency management capabilities on its islands.
Specifically, the following have been received to date:
- 4 earthmovers (heavy construction machinery used for earthworks, land grading, and flood control measures)
- 3 backhoe loaders
- 2 skid-steer loaders (versatile construction machines, ideal for working in confined spaces where large machines have difficulty maneuvering)
In addition, the following are expected to be delivered:
- 2 tanker trucks
- 1 forklift
Upon completion of these deliveries, the new equipment will total 12 vehicles and construction machines, helping to strengthen the operational capacity of the Region’s Civil Protection mechanism.
This reinforcement is part of the consistent priority that the South Aegean Regional Authority places on protecting human life, infrastructure, property, and the natural environment, through the continuous improvement of capabilities for the prevention, preparedness, and response to natural disasters. The new machinery expands the Region’s capabilities to address the consequences of natural disasters, restore accessibility, and generally support Civil Protection operations where needed. Strengthening the available equipment is particularly important at a time when the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events demand a high level of preparedness.
On the occasion of the start of the delivery of the new equipment, the Deputy Regional Governor of the Dodecanese and official in charge of Civil Protection, Christos Efstratiou, stated:
“Strengthening the Civil Protection mechanism is a consistent and essential priority for the Region of South Aegean. The challenges facing our islands are unique. The ever-increasing intensity of natural phenomena requires a high level of operational readiness and sufficient resources and equipment. Every new piece of equipment added to the Civil Protection system strengthens our ability to respond more effectively where needed. Through the “AIGIS” program, we are acquiring critical equipment that enhances our Region’s operational capabilities and helps better protect our islands. Recent extreme weather events have once again highlighted how important it is to have the appropriate resources so that we can respond to emergencies quickly and effectively. For us, safeguarding the islands and ensuring the safety of our fellow citizens is an ongoing responsibility. We remain steadfast in our efforts, utilizing every available tool and resource to ensure that the islands of the Region of South Aegean are better prepared and more resilient in the face of the challenges posed by the climate crisis.”