Reed patches that are crucial for the ecosystem of Lake Ohrid have been set on fire on two locations near the town of Struga, as arsonist destroy the natural habitat to clear the way for urbanization.
The damage resulting from the arson wiped out close to one hectare or 10,000 square meters of vegetation.
Struga’s fire brigade intervened with three vehicles to stop the spreading of the flames.
This is the second incident in a period of two weeks.
Ten days ago, the Natural Environment Inspectorate filed charges against an individual who was in the process of urbanizing an area. The location had been previous cleared of vegetation by setting fire to a patch of reeds.
These are two of many incidents that have taken place in the area of Struga, resulting in the decimation of natural habitats which are crucial for the survival of multiple species.
Birds that nest near the lake are forced to leave the area. Environmentalists don’t know what will happen to the fish that shore vegetation to lay their eggs.
Lake Ohrid is a protected area under UNESCO standards, yet, the authorities don’t have an answer to private interest which aims to convert natural areas into beaches.
