The Forestry Department’s fleet is being reinforced with twenty-five new fire engines ahead of the forthcoming summer season. 

The new vehicles feature state-of-the-art technology, offering enhanced flexibility and rapid response capabilities for tackling forest fires. Each vehicle accommodates up to three crew members and has a water capacity of 2,000 litres.

Additionally, they are equipped with a foam extinguishing system and are built to rugged terrain, as they belong to the 4X4 category.

The new vehicles will be deployed at forestry stations throughout Cyprus, significantly strengthening the operational capacity of the Forestry Department. As part of the International Day of Forests, an event was held at the Athalassa Environmental Information and Education Center, where this new addition to the fleet was officially presented. 

In the presence of the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Dr. Maria Panagiotou, an inspection and acceptance ceremony took place, marking the successful completion of the Procurement Contract.

The acquisition of these vehicles forms part of the broader “Protection of Forests from Fires” initiative, implemented through the Recovery and Resilience Plan, with a total budget of €25.7 million, including VAT.

During her speech, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the Forestry Department, both in terms of equipment and personnel. She also emphasised the importance of prevention and early intervention, stressing that forest fires require immediate and effective management.

Also read: Cyprus Department of Forests | Reinforces firefighting fleet – Photos

The Director of the Forestry Department, Dr. Savvas Ezekiel, expressed his satisfaction with the receipt of the new equipment, noting that these vehicles would be utilised to their fullest extent to protect forests, communities, and the natural environment. 

Furthermore, he announced that in the coming days, the Department expects to receive six earthmover transport platforms and six tankers, further enhancing its operational capacity.

HOUTRIS, the company responsible for the construction of the new fire engines, initially specialised in waste management before expanding into fire and rescue vehicles, airport management equipment, and customised defence solutions.

In the field of firefighting, HOUTRIS has delivered a significant number of specialised vehicles for both the Forestry Department and the Fire Service, including high-rise firefighting vehicles. The new vehicles reinforcing the Forestry Department’s fleet are based on Mercedes-Benz Unimog chassis, ensuring mobility and durability in rough terrain.

The strengthening of the Forestry Department does not end here, as a contract for the supply of 17 large fire engines with a 6-tonne of water capacity is underway, alongside a tender for the acquisition of new firefighting aircraft. 

The efforts continue, aiming to maximise the protection of Cyprus’ forests from the threat of wildfires.

Also read: HOUTRIS | Specialised Vehicles and Solutions for Defence and Security at BATTLEFIELD REDEFiNED 2024