Fire Destroys Recycling Plant in Ritsona: ‘It Has Highly Flammable Materials’ Says Mayor

The fire continues to burn uncontrollably at the recycling plant in Ritsona, which has been completely destroyed. Thick black smoke has engulfed the surrounding area. While the cause of the fire remains unclear, strong firefighting forces are on site, including 36 firefighters, 10 vehicles, and two aerial firefighting arms, with additional support from water-dropping aircraft. According to current information, the fire is contained within the plant, posing no risk to nearby camps or the nearby accommodation facility. No civilians are in danger, and there are no reports of anyone trapped inside the burning building. Earlier, the emergency services advised residents to stay indoors and close doors and windows. The mayor of Chalkida, Elena Vaka, spoke to newsit.gr about the fire’s progression and the safety of the refugee accommodation facility. She emphasized that the plant burns fiercely due to flammable materials like plastics and paper. Although there is no immediate concern for the spread, authorities remain vigilant. The accommodation facility is currently not at risk because the fire lacks sufficient airflow to spread. Residents of the facility are staying put as no evacuation order has been issued. It is estimated that extinguishing the fire will take time due to the large amount of material still left to burn.