Unrest in Pozzuoli: Vulcan threat to the Phlegraian fields intensifies

Unrest in Pozzuoli: Vulcan threat to the Phlegraian fields intensifies

In the past few months, the Phlegraian fields in Italy, Europe's most dangerous volcano, have caused considerable concern. This region, known for its impressive volcanic landscapes and historical ruins, is shaped by rising earthquake activities and a scientific dispute over the future threat of the volcano.

The residents in Pozzuoli are increasingly faced with reality that their home town is threatened by forces of nature, which have already had devastating effects in the past. Around 80,000 people live in this region. They enjoy life with a view of the picturesque islands of Capri and Ischia - but under the constant shadow of a potential volcanic eruption. The recent earthquakes, including one that forced more than 1,500 people to evacuate, have frightened the community.

The unrest of the Phlegraian fields

The volcano can be recognized like an unwelcome guest: the floor rises while the water level sinks at the nearby jetty. There is urgency in the air when several scientists warn of a possible outbreak that could have catastrophic consequences for the region. Giuseppe Mastrolorenzo, a leading volcanologist of the Italian National Institute for Geophysics and Vulkanology (INGV), has become a public dispute with his own authority because he fears that the danger is not taken seriously.

The discussion about the risks and opportunities associated with the volcanic activity is characterized by disagreements among researchers and authorities. On the one hand, there are experts who warn of an impending tilting point. On the other hand, there are voices that dismiss the dangers as exaggerated. Luigi Manzoni, the mayor of Pozzuoli, is in the dilemma between panic makers and the reality on site: "We have to learn to coexist with the threat," he says optimistically.

dispute over the evacuation plans

The uncertain state and the contradictory information that comes from the authorities leave the population at a loss. What happens if the volcano actually breaks out? In the worst case, according to Mastrolorenzo, a massive crack formation with the release of toxic gases and glowing ash that dives the coastline in the dark could occur.

The memories of the eruption of 1538, in which many people only escape with a tight need, are a constant companion in the thoughts of the residents. Today's evacuation plans are designed to bring half a million people to safety within 72 hours, but many citizens are wondering whether this will be enough. Terrifying reports of past evacuation processes feed the doubts that people can get out of their apartments in good time in an actual emergency.

Especially in economically difficult times, there are citizens' initiatives that demand more commitment from the national government to take the threats of volcanic activity seriously. Many residents feel abandoned, especially since tourism decreases in the region and had to close business. Rossana Maurelli observes a dramatic drop in sales of 60 to 70 percent in her family's ceramic business. "We are so in love with our country," she says, emphasizing the emotional connection of people to their homeland.

The scientific debates about the future threat from the Phlegraian fields are closely linked to the question of the responsibility of the authorities. While some scientists want to shake the population to force possible preventive measures, local and national politicians try to find a balance between security and maintaining economic life in the region. Another which many are in the unclear is how the population can be protected in an emergency, which reinforces the mental stress of the residents.