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The 15 families who were left homeless after a gas cylinder explosion in a five-story building in Elbasan will benefit from a rent bonus for one year, with the possibility of an extension until they return to their homes. The decision was approved this Tuesday by the Elbasan Municipal Council, through an accelerated procedure, after the completion of the expertise by the Construction Institute.
All 15 families have signed contracts, while the Municipality has verified market prices to determine the value of the bonus. Expenses will be covered based on the law on civil emergencies, until the final accommodation of the residents.
Meanwhile, families have started looking for rental apartments, as the dormitory made available by the Municipality has not been used. Interior Minister Ervin Demo said that institutions will discuss alternatives for a long-term solution, while engineers will assess the condition of the building and possible interventions.
"Today we have a working meeting on the ground to discuss what the alternatives will be that we will pursue. They will have absolute support. All institutions must interact to solve the problem. It was a tragedy that could have been more serious. Two human lives are a disaster, but we must look forward to addressing all the concerns of the residents of that building," said Demo.
He emphasized that any decision about the future of the building must be made in consultation with the residents.
"Engineers will evaluate the structure of the building, possible interventions and based on this information we will see the alternatives we have. We are here today to show the will that this will find a solution," said the minister.
The mayor of Elbasan, Gledjan Llatja, also said that the goal is to find a final solution for the affected families.
"We are here to help the residents. Our goal is to find a final solution. We are waiting for the final report of the Building Inspectorate," Llatja declared. The
gas cylinder explosion in the five-story building caused two fatalities and 10 injuries. The damage to the building forced the evacuation of residents and rendered the affected apartments unusable.