First Drone Inspections in Halkidiki to Detect Land Encroachments

Greek authorities have initiated the first drone inspections in Halkidiki, northern Greece in efforts to identify potential violations linked to beach and seashore concessions.

The aerial oversight started from the “Pefkochori” and “Polychrono” beaches in Halkidiki, two beaches with a high rate of trespassing complaints. The data collected are forwarded to the relevant land management services for analysis and subsequent measures where necessary.

Drone inspections aim to ensure compliance with regulations on beaches and seashores and will continue intensively in the coming period. Inspectors will be aided in their work with the first 30 drone flights, which are expected to be carried out gradually in the coming period.

The Ministry of National Economy and Finance recently legislated a new framework to speed up the processes for new beach and seashore usage contracts.
The Ministry’s new strategy includes strict regulations and intensive inspections to ensure free public access to beaches, transparent utilization of public property, environmental protection, enhancement of tourist products, and the respect and safety of beachgoers.