TIRANA, Sept 1 /ATA/ By A. Fortuzi/- Around 239 wildfires have broken out in August alone in different cities across the country. Prolonged drought, scorching temperatures and strong winds in certain areas but also human neglect have caused fires in forests, pastures and fruit groves.
To help with wildfire containment, the Armed Forces and other state structures have shown high commitment by sending in equipment and staff to the hotspots. Around 180 fire engines from local structures of Fire Protection Services as well as 2000 troops have engaged in fire extinguishing operations at this period.
In Delvinë and Finiq on Saturday two wildfires were activated again. Fire engines from Delvina, Saranda and Gjirokastra and 70 fire fighters battled with the flames. Local authorities reported that two houses abandoned 15 years ago were damaged by fire. The situation is under control, whereas the AF troops close to Regional Defense Detachment in Gjirokastra are on standby .
Until now the fires have burned down around 500 ha of forests, bushes and several thousands of olive trees.
The law enforcement institutions have started legal proceedings against all suspects in arson cases.
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