The intention to declare Tenerife as catastrophic zone due to the fire that devastated the Island, implies that an exceptional emergency situation has occurred that requires a special and coordinated response by the central government and local authorities.
This statement is made pursuant to the Law 17/2015of July 9, of the National Civil Protection System.
What does that statement mean?
resource mobilization
The mobilization of human, material and economic resources necessary to deal with the emergency is allowed. This may include additional funds for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected area.
Help those affected
The inhabitants of the affected area can access special aid and benefits to mitigate the damage suffered. This may include economic support, subsidies for housing and reconstruction, and other measures to alleviate the impact on the population.
coordination of efforts
The declaration of a catastrophic zone allows better coordination between the different public administrations involved, such as the central government, the regional governments and local authorities. This facilitates a quick and efficient response to an emergency.
Facilitation of procedures
Certain paperwork and administrative procedures are simplified to expedite aid and reconstruction. This may include relaxing planning and building regulations to speed up the rehabilitation of infrastructure and housing.
Attention to specific sectors
Specific measures can be implemented to protect especially vulnerable sectors, such as agriculture, livestock, tourism and others that may have been directly or indirectly affected by the disaster.
Promotion of solidarity
Disaster zone declaration can also generate increased media attention and solidarity both nationally and internationally, which can translate into additional donations and support for recovery.
Long-term assessment and planning
In addition to the immediate response, a comprehensive assessment of the damage and the overall situation is usually carried out. This helps plan for long-term reconstruction and implement prevention measures for future similar disasters.
The declaration of a catastrophic zone seeks to provide resources, coordination and special support to the areas affected by the fires in Tenerife in order to help in the recovery and reconstruction of the Island.
