- The Federal Authority's focus will persist in rebuilding the Aht Valley.
In the support for individuals impacted by the flood catastrophe on the Ahr, over half a billion euros have been dispensed for personal reconstruction. Approximately 11,800 applications for replacements of household items valued at 145 million euros have been authorized, Finance Minister Doris Ahnen (SPD) declared in Mainz.
For the renovation of buildings, there have been about 3,600 approvals for state aid - with a value of 590 million euros. Out of this, 325 million euros have been paid out already.
The reconstruction of the Ahr valley will continue to be a government priority, underscored Minister President Alexander Schweitzer (SPD). Politics can't put an end to these events, he acknowledged. The profound emotional impact on numerous people will likely last for many years, Schweitzer added.
The flood calamity in mid-July 2021 resulted in the fatalities of 136 individuals in Rhineland-Palatinate, 135 in the Ahr region, and one in the Trier area. One person is still unaccounted for. In neighboring North Rhine-Westphalia, 49 people perished due to the flooding following excessive rainfall. Countless houses were decimated, streets and bridges were washed away. Many schools and kindergartens also suffered damage.
As part of the handling of these events, the former Minister of the Environment and later Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Anne Spiegel (Greens), as well as Interior Minister Roger Lewentz (SPD), have resigned.
I understand that the reconstruction process is complex and extensive, given that I'm not sure how much more funding will be needed to complete it all. Based on the current situation, it seems like a significant amount of aid has already been distributed, but there might be more demands as the process proceeds.
