After the Flames: Madeira Faces Landslide Risks and Housing Challenges

Fajã das Galinhas, a small community in the mountains of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, is now grappling with the aftermath of the wildfires that devastated the island. As the Regional Emergency and Civil Protection Plan is lifted, the focus shifts to assessing the damage and addressing safety concerns. The fires have left the area’s steep escarpments even more unstable, raising fears of potential and recurring landslides.

36 Families Await New Homes Amid Safety Concerns

Leonel Silva, the mayor of Câmara de Lobos, emphasized that finding housing for the 36 displaced families from Fajã das Galinhas is a top priority. “We need to identify available housing, whether it’s owned by the municipal government, the Madeira Regional Government, or private individuals,” Silva said in an interview with TSF. He noted that spaces currently serving other purposes could potentially be adapted to provide the necessary amenities, including kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and communal areas.

Rockfalls a Persistent Threat in Fajã das Galinhas

The danger posed by rockfalls is not new to Fajã das Galinhas. Silva pointed out that even before the fires, rain and wind frequently caused rocks to tumble onto the roads. The recent fires, however, have exacerbated the instability of the escarpments, making the area even more hazardous. The mayor highlighted that this issue was already identified in the local housing strategy, which called for immediate intervention to safeguard the community.

Bureaucratic Hurdles Delay Construction of New Homes

Plans to construct new housing for the displaced residents have been in place since last year. However, Silva indicated that some bureaucratic formalities still need to be finalized before construction can begin. Despite these delays, the municipality is pushing to expedite the process and ensure the families have stable, safe housing as soon as possible.

A Long Road to Recovery

Silva estimates that it will take between 18 months and two years to find or build new accommodations for the families of Fajã das Galinhas. During this period, authorities are working to provide dignified temporary housing solutions that offer privacy and autonomy for each family. “We need to ensure that the people are housed in a way that respects their privacy and gives them a sense of normalcy,” Silva said. The community’s recovery from this disaster will be a long and challenging journey, but local leaders remain committed to rebuilding and providing a safe environment for all residents.

Source: TSF.pt