In Niscemi the largest landslide in Europe, 1,500 people already displaced

The hill on which the town of Niscemi stands, in the province of Caltanissetta, it is slowly but surely sliding towards the Gela plain. A landslide of extraordinary proportions, unprecedented in Europe according to experts, which has so far forced 1,500 people to abandon their homes, a number unfortunately destined to grow.

«The whole hill is moving – he explained Fabio Ciciliano, head of the Department of Civil Protection – and the buildings on its summit are put in jeopardy. We saw fractures spanning the entire area, and in just one night the main fracture widened by a kilometer». The depth of the landslide front reaches 50 meters in some places, creating a real natural canyon.

The inspection by the Department’s technicians, together with the professor Nicola Casagli, confirmed the seriousness of the situation. Gela’s prosecutor, Salvatore Vella, also arrived in Niscemi to check the red zone. The municipal operations center works tirelessly to coordinate the emergency and ensure support for the displaced.

The first economic aid has already been allocated: 400 euros per family, plus 100 euros for each member up to a maximum of 900 euros per month for one year, thanks to the State’s autonomous accommodation contribution fund (Cas). Concrete support, even if concern remains high among residents.

“There is no comparison in all of Europe,” he says Don Giuseppe Cafàparish priest of Niscemi, «This landslide event is extraordinary. The community is tried, but tries to remain united in prayer and hope.”

The secretary of the Democratic Party also arrived in Niscemi on Tuesday, Elly Schlein, to bring closeness to the population and local institutions: «We need to make people and the territory safe, giving them a clear perspective as soon as possible. Our commitment is to ensure all the necessary support.”