Santorini’s Seismic Activity and Uncontrolled Development: A Recipe for Disaster
Santorini’s Seismic Woes
Santorini, a picturesque Greek island renowned for its captivating volcanic landscapes, has become a seismic hotspot in recent weeks. Since January 26, the island has witnessed a staggering 14,000 earthquakes, according to the University of Athens’ Seismological Laboratory. Even on February 11 and 12, the island jolted more than 200 times.
Dense Bebauung,Lax Regulations
Amidst this seismic turmoil, concerns have been raised about the island’s rampant development and lax building regulations. The newspaper "To Proto Thema" reports that the building density in some areas of Santorini is up to five times higher than the national average. Often, structures are built without the necessary permits, and coordinated urban planning is lacking.
Erdbebensicherheit in Frage gestellt
While some argue that most buildings on Santorini are constructed to withstand earthquakes, the lack of geotechnical studies on soil stability introduces significant uncertainties. "A building may have the correct calculations for earthquake resistance, but we don’t know what’s happening underneath," warns Vassilis Hatzipetros, an architect from the local engineering association.
Caldera Concerns
The issue is particularly acute along the Caldera, the rim of the island’s volcanic crater. Despite the steep slopes, hotels and guesthouses have been erected dangerously close to the edge. Many of these properties feature swimming pools, which not only add weight but can also become hazardous projectiles during an earthquake, increasing the likelihood of damage.
Water Hazard
Recognizing the potential danger, authorities have recently urged property owners to empty their pools. Pools on the Caldera are particularly concerning, as even a small tremor could send water cascading into buildings below.
Illegal Construction
The problem of illegal construction on Santorini is not lost on the government. Building permits for new structures, extensions, and pool installations have been suspended. However, this move comes after years of lax enforcement.
80 Violations at the Caldera’s Edge
In the past three years, authorities have conducted inspections of properties around the Caldera, uncovering 80 violations – significantly more than on other islands. The newspaper "To Vima" suggests that corruption may be a factor in this widespread disregard for building regulations.
A ticking Time Bomb
The combination of ongoing seismic activity and uncontrolled development creates a precarious situation on Santorini. If a major earthquake were to strike, the island’s dense Bebauung, weak structures, and unstable soils could lead to catastrophic consequences.
Call to Action
Experts and authorities alike are urging immediate action to address these risks. Stringent building codes must be enforced, geotechnical studies must be conducted, and illegal construction must be halted. Only by taking these steps can Santorini safeguard its inhabitants and preserve its unique natural beauty for future generations.
