While Serbia Burns, The Government Finally Wakes Up! Fires in the Toplica district are raging like an apocalypse, and the first millions for damage compensation are arriving only now, after the fire has already consumed homes, crops, and machinery. Darko Glišić, head of the damage assessment commission, promises the first payments by Friday or at the latest Monday, while about twenty active fires are still being fought on the ground. Is this an urgent response or just firefighting on paper?
The fires have caused massive damage in the Toplica district, where homes and outbuildings have burned down, and farmers have lost crops, machinery, and livestock. The government has allocated millions of dinars for compensation, but Glišić warns that if needed, more funds will be taken from budget reserves. Although aid is being mobilized, the question remains whether it could have been faster and more effective, given that the fires have been active for days and weather conditions and wind only worsen the situation.
The cause of the fires? Burning of stubble and negligence, say officials, along with high temperatures and wind spreading the fire at an incredible speed. Glišić does not rule out the possibility of arson, but that will be determined by the authorities. Meanwhile, people are losing property, and the government is trying to repair the damage. Three houses are already being built in affected villages, but is that enough?
While Serbia battles the fiery disaster, neighboring Croatia warns that human negligence is the main cause of fires, with statistics showing that 90% of fires are caused by carelessness. Heatwaves and drought further worsen the situation, and prevention campaigns and investments in monitoring are key, but is Serbia ready for such challenges?
If you thought fires were far from you, think again. Fire does not discriminate, and neither should the government wait. Follow the situation, share your experiences, and maybe together we can prevent the next disaster. Or at least have a good laugh while waiting for the first payments. Who knows, it might be as spectacular as the fires themselves!
