Massive Landslide Above La Grotta Blocks Corfu Road. Civil Protection Dispatches Teams.
Corfu, February 10 – A significant landslide occurred above the La Grotta area, on the road leading to Paleokastritsa, effectively blocking the thoroughfare. Large sections of the mountain have detached, sending rocks and other debris across the road, rendering it impassable for vehicles.
Following the incident, the Civil Protection unit of the Ionian Islands Regional Unit was immediately dispatched to the site to assess the situation and commence efforts for road restoration. Their immediate priority is to clear the debris and ensure the safety of the area, allowing for the eventual reopening of the road.
Continuous Rainfall Blamed for Recurring Rockfalls
This latest landslide is not an isolated event. It follows another rockfall that occurred on Saturday, further along the road to Paleokastritsa, albeit at a different location. That incident also caused significant disruption to traffic flow. Authorities attribute these continuous rockfalls and the displacement of loose materials to the persistent and heavy rainfall experienced in the region over recent days.
The saturated ground conditions, caused by prolonged precipitation, significantly increase the instability of slopes and rock formations, making such landslides more probable. Residents and commuters are advised to exercise extreme caution when travelling in mountainous areas and to stay informed about local weather conditions and road closures.
Impact on Local Traffic and Tourism
The road to Paleokastritsa is a vital artery for both local residents and tourists, connecting several communities and popular destinations. The blockage is expected to cause significant detours and delays, impacting daily commutes and potentially affecting local businesses in the area. Authorities are working diligently to restore full accessibility as quickly and safely as possible.
Local officials are also evaluating long-term solutions to mitigate the risk of future landslides, which may include geological surveys and reinforcement projects in vulnerable areas. The safety of the public remains the utmost priority.
Further updates on the road’s status and restoration efforts will be provided by the Civil Protection unit as they become available.
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/kerkyra-megali-katolisthisi-pano-apo-to-la-gkrota/
