The Carmel fire
Photo: Israel Fire and Rescue Services
Cabinet okays millions for Carmel rehabilitation
Restoration of Haifa-adjacent mountain, which suffered devastating damage in winter wildfire in full swing
The State will allot millions in rehabilitation funds for the Carmel area, which suffered devastating damage in a December fire.
The Carmel fire, which raged for four days and nights, claimed 44 lives, forced the evacuation of nearly 17,000 people and consumed 8,650 acres of land and natural forest.
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The decision was formulated by the Carmel Rehabilitation Steering Committee headed by Eyal Gabai, director-General of the Prime Minister's Office.
These fund will be allotted in addition to NIS 130 million (approx. $38 million) set aside for the area's restoration immediately after the blaze.
The additional finds are to be use for reforestation, new infrastructure and municipal assistance to the communities affected by the fire.
Some NIS 55 million ($16 million) will be dedicated to rehabilitate the Carmel wildlife and forest, which suffered grave damage in the fire. This part of the plan will be overseen by the Environmental Protection Ministry and the Agriculture Ministry.
"These are not mere statements, these are actual steps taken on the ground in a swift and practical manner," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.
"I thank all the offices which came together and collaborated in favor of this important goal."
The sentiment was echoed by Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz.
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