Fires: Civil Protection tackles three blazes still burning

Three fires were still burning in Algeria on Friday afternoon, in the wilayas of Setif, Bejaia and Skikda, according to the Directorate General of Civil Protection.

Eight fires involving vegetation, agricultural crops and forest areas had been reported in recent hours. Firefighters fully contained five of them, while crews continued working to stop the remaining three from spreading.

In Setif, one fire remained active in the Charen Beyan forest in the municipality of Rasfa. Two Mi-26 water-bomber helicopters joined ground units and carried out targeted drops over areas that were difficult to reach. A new fire was also reported in Oum El Toub, in Skikda, where authorities quickly deployed personnel and equipment. Extinguishing operations continued in Bejaia as well.

Support for affected residents was organized alongside the firefighting effort. A cultural and solidarity caravan left the capital of Bejaia for communities hit hardest by the fires. The weeklong initiative, organized under the Culture and Arts Ministry's national “Cultural Caravans, Hand in Hand for a United Algeria” program, includes participants from several wilayas.

The caravan is scheduled to visit Achlouf village in Touja, Derguina, Tizi Ahmed Betichi and Melbou. Its activities include art workshops, educational programs, book and gift distributions, and the creation of reading and exchange spaces. Bejaia Culture and Arts Director Omar Regal said the tour carries “a message of love, solidarity and support” for residents, especially children.

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a message of love, solidarity and support