Greek municipalities are set to receive increased funding to strengthen fire prevention and emergency preparedness ahead of the 2026 wildfire season.
Greece will allocate 50 million euros to municipalities to strengthen fire prevention and operational readiness ahead of the 2026 wildfire season, the Interior Ministry announced.
Approved by Interior Minister Thodoris Livanios, the funding – up 25 percent compared to 2024 – will be distributed among 332 municipalities, which will receive a total of 47.5 million euros, while an additional 2.5 million euros will go to municipal associations.
The funding will be used exclusively for fire prevention and response actions, with a focus on reducing the risk of wildfire outbreaks and spread.
Measures include vegetation clearing in high-risk areas such as parks, groves and campsites, as well as the removal of flammable materials from both private and public spaces.
Particular focus will be placed on wildland-urban interface zones, where municipalities are expected to cooperate with forestry services to implement targeted interventions. The plan also includes the maintenance and upgrading of forest road networks, considered critical for firefighting access.
Funding will also support volunteer groups, the procurement of equipment such as water tankers and communication systems, and operational costs including fuel and staff overtime. In addition, municipalities will be able to lease vehicles and machinery to address emergency needs.
Through the increased allocation, the ministry aims to strengthen the role of local authorities in fire protection, with a focus on prevention as a key factor in limiting the impact of wildfires.
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