TIRANA, Jan 8 /ATA/ – Preventive evacuations have been launched in parts of the western Durrës region after heavy rainfall worsened flooding over the past 24 hours, Interior Minister Albana Koçiu said on Thursday.
Speaking after a meeting of the Civil Emergencies at the Durrës prefecture, Koçiu said conditions had deteriorated sharply, prompting authorities to activate evacuation plans in the administrative units of Vadardhë, Sukth and Katundi i Ri.
“All state structures are on the ground and on full alert,” Interior Minister said, adding that the priority remained the protection of lives and public safety.
The evacuations are being carried out by the armed forces and civil emergency services, in coordination with police and local authorities, she said.
Koçiu urged residents in affected areas to follow instructions from emergency teams and refrain from taking independent action, warning that uncoordinated movement could put lives at risk.
About 20 families have been evacuated so far in Katundi i Ri and Vadardhë, she said, adding that the situation remained fluid and further evacuations were possible.
Authorities have made hotel facilities available for displaced residents, along with two convalescence centres operated by the interior and defence ministries, supported by state material reserves, Koçiu said.
She said damage assessments would follow once the immediate emergency had passed, stressing that the focus at this stage was on preventing casualties.
“All institutions are fully engaged to support every city and every family in need,” Koçiu said.
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