Three years ago, the valleys of Roya, Vésubie, Tinée, Var, and Esteron were hit by storm Alex. No less than 650 million tons of water were dumped on the Alpes-Maritimes, devastating the landscape. Now, it is time to take stock.
95% of infrastructure work carried out by the Alpes-Maritimes department for the reconstruction of the valleys is complete. There are five projects that are about to be completed. “Throughout these past three years, I have made it a point to keep track of, and report to you, the progress and completion of the projects,” states Charles Ange Ginésy. The department president is pleased to announce that all road access in the Roya valley has been restored.
In total, the department has already invested over 250 million euros in various restoration works and aid for disaster victims. This year, it is renewing its support by committing an additional 59 million euros, bringing the total investment by the Departmental Council for reconstruction to 315 million euros. “These are essential facilities for the local economy, installations that have been updated, improved, and designed to offer even better service and renewed experiences,” announces Charles Ange Ginésy.
A memorial in honor of the 18 victims inaugurated
A memorial in memory of the victims was inaugurated on September 29. Titled “Avenir” (Future), it was created by Spanish sculptor Ernest Altès, and the work is installed at the Administrative Center of the Alpes-Maritimes Department (CADAM), in the gardens of the Department’s Hotel. It features a quote, a message of hope: “On the other side of the storm, there is the strength of having endured it.”
The sculpture is composed of seven metal columns, “allegories of human figures moving in the same direction,” river rocks representing their heads, and a symbolic wall protecting the silhouettes from the onslaught of the waters. Additionally, 18 sheets of metal, referencing the number of victims, have been incorporated.
“This memorial piece sits at the confluence of the strength of the State and local authorities. It represents memory, hope, and recognition. It will also be a reminder of our duty to protect the population. We remember the lives disrupted. This emotion will never fade,” proclaims Éric Ciotti.
This Monday, October 2, two commemorative ceremonies are planned in the Vésubie valley.
