Valdeorras residents demand fire action
Protests call for prevention plans as wildfires devastate Galicia
Residents of Valdeorras, a comarca in Ourense, Spain, have mobilized to demand a comprehensive fire prevention plan following a summer marked by devastating wildfires. Frustrated by what they perceive as inadequate governmental responses, local communities are advocating for stronger policies to address forest fire prevention. A petition drive has been initiated, urging the Xunta de Galicia and local councils to implement effective measures, including the development of municipal fire prevention plans, annual maintenance schedules for undergrowth clearing, and emergency protocols for smaller communities.
Protests are planned, with participants gathering at the town hall square in O Barco de Valdeorras to march against the current fire risks and lack of preparedness. The region has faced significant wildfires in recent years, particularly in 2022 and 2025, which have devastated thousands of hectares, threatening homes and damaging the environment and cultural heritage. The recurrence of fires in the same areas has intensified calls for prioritizing prevention over reactive measures.
Currently, a fire in the parish of Casaio has burned over 700 hectares, exacerbated by strong winds and close to previously affected territories. Protesters are raising concerns about the inadequacy of existing fire prevention measures, which they argue are poorly funded and lack coordination. They are advocating for improved surveillance in natural parks, the establishment of permanent firefighting brigades, and increased resources from various government levels to restore areas previously affected by fires.
Local authorities have acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, with the mayor confirming enhanced firefighting efforts. However, many residents feel that the response has been more reactive than proactive, raising fears that without proper planning, the next wildfire season could catch them unprepared. As the demonstration approaches, participants from both rural and urban areas are expected to join, driven by personal experiences and a collective demand for immediate action to break the cycle of fire and destruction in Galicia.
