As reported by Cretalive.gr, the village is home to approximately 200 permanent residents who are feeling distressed and uncertain about how to cope with the deteriorating conditions. An assessment revealed that 15 houses are entirely uninhabitable, with many others requiring repairs; nearly all homes have developed cracks.
“This situation has persisted for over 20 years. We have commissioned studies to determine if the village needs to be abandoned,” stated Mayor Grigoris Nikolidakis in an interview with Cretalive. He also noted that he has been in contact with the head of OASP, providing detailed updates about the geological issues affecting Magarikári.
The Mayor mentioned that he has shared photographs and previous studies with Mr. Lekkas, who has promised to return to Crete early next week to personally investigate the geological concerns in Messara.
A study conducted in 2023 by the Municipality of Faiakes highlights that the geological phenomenon is causing significant anxiety and feelings of neglect among residents. The cracks are worsening, and new fissures are appearing throughout the village, prompting residents to attempt temporary fixes. Urgent action is needed to complete the long-stalled drainage project.
The 2023 study by the Municipality of Faiakes indicates that landslides are a major part of the geological phenomenon. Inspections of 80 buildings in the historic settlement showed that 15% were deemed unfit for habitation due to severe damage, while 60% exhibited significant structural concerns. During our report, we encountered residents living in perilous conditions, with several having already vacated the village.
The findings from the Municipality of Faiakes highlight the area’s ongoing risks, stressing the immediate need for further studies and the construction of permanent solutions to address the landslides.
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