Tue Nov 05 20:49:03 UTC 2024: ## Spain Announces $11.5 Billion Aid Package After Devastating Floods
Madrid, Spain – The Spanish government has announced a €10.6 billion ($11.5 billion) aid package for those affected by the recent flash floods that killed at least 217 people and devastated homes and businesses. The floods, the deadliest in modern Spanish history, were caused by heavy rainfall and are believed to be linked to climate change.
The aid package includes €838 million in direct cash payments to small businesses and freelance workers impacted by the disaster. The government will also provide €5 billion in state-guaranteed loans and will fully fund the cleanup costs for local councils, as well as half the cost of repairing damaged infrastructure. Spain has also requested aid from the European Union’s solidarity fund.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, facing criticism over the government’s response to the disaster, stated that nearly 15,000 police and military personnel have been deployed to help clear flood-affected areas, along with hundreds of forestry officials, forensic scientists, customs agents, and heavy machinery.
However, the government has faced growing anger from residents who feel their needs were ignored. On Sunday, crowds in Paiporta, a suburb of Valencia, threw mud at King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and Sanchez, chanting “Murderers!”
Matilde Gregori, a shop owner in Sedavi, another town affected by the floods, echoed the sentiment: “Only the people are helping…And the politicians, where are they? Why didn’t they raise the alarm? Murderers!”
The death toll from the floods is still rising as rescue efforts continue. Currently, 111 victims have been identified, but at least 89 people are still missing. The regional judicial authorities in Valencia warned that the number of fatalities could increase.
First Piper 