September 26, 2024, 8:23 AM
September 26, 2024, 8:23 AM
“The flames are 200 meters from our houses, “The heat and smoke are unbearable. We are doing everything possible to contain the fire,” said Marcelino Cruz, president of the OTB of Puerto San Pedro.
The fire has already burned the community’s management plans, productive areas, pastures, and the water is contaminated by the ashes, the leader explained.
Puerto San Pedro is an indigenous community that is within the TCO of Monte Verde which is located 96 kilometers from Concepción and has 60 inhabitants.
Cruz said that the only thing left is the urban area, where homes are also threatened. “The community members, together with the soldiers who arrived today (Wednesday 25), are doing everything possible to prevent the fire from spreading.”
“Unfortunately Help arrived late, when almost everything had already burned. “The animals have been left without pasture and we have nothing to eat either. We are going through very distressing times,” said Vania Vargas, leader of Puerto San Pedro.
Vargas said that the Residents have already inhaled enough smoke, Children and the elderly are beginning to have health problems. “We were told that we could be evacuated to Concepción. I think it would be good to avoid any misfortune,” Vargas added.
Pánfilo Paniagua, another resident of Puerto San Pedro, asked the authorities Equipment for community firefighters, food, medicines and fodder for animals left without pasture.
EVACUATION
The incident command recommended evacuating residents of five communities affected by forest fires.
Monte Verde, Makanaté, El Regreso, Sagrado Corazón de Jesús and Puerto San Pedro are in danger of being hit by fire.
A commission from the municipality and another from Apcob went to these places to persuade the community members, given the refusal of some to leave their homes and belongings.
