TIRANA, January 7 – The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Andis Salla, and the Minister of Defense, Pirro Vengu, met today at the National Civil Protection Agency to report on the situation caused by severe weather.

Prefects from various counties also attended the meeting. The ministers assured full institutional readiness and urged citizens to stay cautious and avoid high-risk areas.

Salla said the Agriculture Ministry monitors conditions continuously. He explained that irrigation and drainage directorates remain fully operational. He added that rainfall caused light river flows in Shkodër. In Lezha and Durrës, floods affected several hectares of farmland.

The minister called for close coordination between prefects, municipalities, and drainage boards. He stressed the need for continuous collaboration with civil protection structures. Salla said some main canals risk overflowing, which could worsen flooding. He noted that their goal is to protect farmland and prevent threats to homes.

Salla confirmed that he and the Defense Minister will stay on-site to coordinate actions and monitor affected areas. They will deploy equipment and additional measures if needed.

/a.p./