The unprecedented amount of water that fell in a short period of time highlighted the inability of the existing infrastructure to manage such phenomena. Despite all this, as Mayor Alexandros Koliadis mentioned, Rhodes endured.
In his official statement, Mr. Koliadis acknowledged the difficulties faced by the residents and emphasized that the preparation of the competent services was not sufficient for the specific extreme phenomena. He said: “We take responsibility for the problems caused, but we also take responsibility for better preparation and organization for the next time.”
Mr. Koliadis pointed out that extreme weather events are no longer isolated exceptions, but a new normal, to which local authorities must adapt. “The images we saw yesterday in Rhodes, but also throughout the rest of the country, do not allow us to continue the management in the way it was done until now”, he underlined.
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Despite the difficulties, Rhodes quickly returned to its normal rhythm, thanks to the immediate mobilization of the crews of the Municipality and DEVAR (Municipal Water Supply and Sewerage Company of Rhodes). The Mayor thanked the citizens for their patience, as well as the employees of the Municipality and DEVAR for their tireless efforts. He also recognized the contribution of the Deputy Mayors and the Authorized Municipal Councilors, who stood by his side, ensuring the immediate restoration of the problems.
In the context of the immediate reaction to the events, Mr. Koliadis announced the convening of an emergency meeting with the participation of all the authorities, to create an updated and integrated management plan for similar situations. The goal, he said, is to improve the organization to deal with future extreme events, which cannot be avoided but can be managed more effectively.
The Mayor emphasized the priority he gives to the safety of citizens and the shielding of the island against weather phenomena, recognizing the responsibility he bears towards the residents of Rhodes. “The citizen has the first say, we are accountable to you and we are judged by you,” he said characteristically, emphasizing that well-intentioned criticism is welcome, as it contributes to the continuous improvement of local administration.
Concluding his statement, Mr. Koliadis assured the citizens that together, through a collective effort, they will manage to make Rhodes safer and more resilient against the challenges that the times bring. “Together we will make Rhodes safer and more resilient,” was his message, reaffirming his commitment to substantial change in the management of extreme weather events.
Rhodes, like many other regions of the country, is called upon to adapt to the new reality of intense weather phenomena, with the aim of protecting its inhabitants and the natural environment.
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