The flames that attacked the Castiadas area on Wednesday afternoon have been put out. Fortunately, no damage to people or buildings was reported. But the worst was also feared in which tourist facility.
The mayor of Castiadas Eugenio Murgioni vented his feelings in a letter sent to citizens : «In the last few hours our territory has been hit by a serious fire. The first signs occurred around 6pm in the Mallocu plain and, since then, the flames have continued to rage unabated, destroying several hectares of Mediterranean scrub and various woodland varieties . The situation is dramatic and required the extraordinary intervention of a Canadair and a helicopter, as well as local civil protection resources and the help of some private citizens. The response of our forces was immediate and courageous. The Forestry Guard led by its commander Mauro Pisu, supported by the firefighters and the staff of the Municipality of Castiadas, is working heroically to contain the fire and protect our priceless environmental heritage. Furthermore, the flames are also approaching the homes of some of our fellow citizens."
«It is disconcerting and painful - continues Murgioni - to see how the madness of a few criminals can jeopardize our beloved Sardinia and its precious natural heritage. These acts of irresponsibility and malice not only damage the environment, but also profoundly affect our communities, our way of life and the local economy . The economic damage caused by these fires is enormous, affecting agricultural and tourism activities and local infrastructure, with long-term repercussions on our economy."
Furthermore, adds the mayor, «I would like to sincerely thank all those who are fighting to put out the fire. Their courage and dedication are admirable. Thanks to the Forestry Guard, the Fire Brigade, the civil protection, the volunteers, the private citizens and the staff of the Municipality of Castiadas for their incessant commitment and their extraordinary determination. Applause also goes to the Carabinieri and the Local Police who controlled the traffic on the streets involved."
Finally, a reflection: «We can no longer tolerate such behavior. It is necessary to take severe action against these individuals who demonstrate that they have no respect for our land . We must join forces to protect and preserve our territory, so that tragedies like this do not happen again. Sardinia deserves to be defended by every possible means and, together, we can make a difference."
