State to offer safe land for flood-zone residents in Jesenicko

The Czech government will offer residents in the flood-affected areas of Jesenicko the option to swap their flood-zone land for state-owned plots in safer locations, according to Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný (Christian Democrats). The government may also buy affected properties to help residents avoid living in fear of future floods. A study by the State Land Office is underway to identify suitable building sites, as 40 homes in the flood zone near the Bělá River are set for demolition. Jeseník mayor Zdeňka Blišťanová agreed that in some areas, it may be more practical to let the Bělá River remain in its new course rather than spend millions trying to return it to its previous path.