"Response to Massive Fires 2025” held in Gjirokastër, Civil Protection Structures conduct Joint Exercise

Published: Thursday, 12 June 2025 17:53

On June 11–12, a two-day functional exercise titled “Response to Massive Fires 2025” was held in the Gërhot area of Gjirokastër. Organized by the National Civil Protection Agency (NCPA), in cooperation with the municipalities and prefectures of Gjirokastër and Vlorë, the drill brought together all civil protection structures from both counties.

Present at the event were the Director of AKMC, Haki Çako, the Prefect of Gjirokastër, Odise Kote, the Prefect of Vlorë, Plator Nesturi, the Mayor of Gjirokastër, Flamur Golemi, as well as project partners and representatives from various local and national institutions.

In his address, NCPA Director Çako highlighted the importance of the exercise, especially with the fire season approaching: “This drill focuses on preparedness measures for wildfires, which tend to escalate during the summer months, particularly in forests, pastures, and orchards, but also pose threats to residential areas.”

He stressed that the top priority remains the protection of citizens lives, property, cultural heritage, livestock, and all of the country’s valuable resources.

Mr. Çako noted that climate change and human factors have contributed to a rise in wildfires in recent years, causing significant economic damage, public insecurity, and challenges to the growing tourism sector. He expressed gratitude to all the teams involved in firefighting efforts.

He also urged the State Police to continue identifying and prosecuting individuals responsible for causing fires, whether intentionally or not, stating that 90% of wildfires are linked to human activity.

The simulation included evacuation procedures, first aid, search and rescue operations, and inter-agency coordination at both the local and regional levels.