Construction of 110 out of 140 single-family homes has completed as part of the second phase of the post-earthquake reconstruction programme in the municipality of Shijak, while 30 more houses are set to complete within June. Prime Minister Edi Rama started this week handing over the newly-built homes to the quake-affected families in the village of Vlashaj, Shijak municipality, accompanied by local Mayor Elton Arbana and the Minister of State for Reconstruction Arben Ahmetaj. A total of 16 families moved into new homes in Vlashaj village, while more affected households are gradually starting a fresh life in brand new homes being built under the reconstruction programme in all quake-hit areas, where old dwellings sustained serious damages and became uninhabitable.

“Some 21 houses have been built as part of the second phase of the reconstruction project. In the meantime, construction of 16 homes has completed in the village of Vlashaj, whereas five families have received the government compensation grant to rebuild their homes themselves. Mr. Naim’s family previously owned a 60-square meter house and they have benefited a new 75-square meter dwelling. They have also benefited the rental bonus since day one after the earthquake,” Mayor Arbana said.

The post-earthquake reconstruction programme has addressed housing issues for a considerable number of families previously living under same roof that are entitled to benefit new separate house under the law provisions.

“The project includes construction of more than 2500 single-family homes under a combined scheme involving construction and full compensation to the affected families. As you already promised at end of last year, construction of 2500 single-family homes will complete this month. I want to highlight this fact now that the elections are over to confirm the fact that promises are being kept,” Reconstruction Minister Ahmetaj said.

Vladimir Qoku’s family too, who received the keys to new home by the Prime Minister, have benefited a larger house than they used to live in previously. “These are typical cases showing that housing issues are also being addressed as part of the post-earthquake reconstruction programme. A total of 600 families are entitled to benefit larger living spaces, providing a lasting solution to the housing issue,” Ahmetaj said.

On his part, Shijak Mayor Elton Arbana informed that the first phase of the reconstruction project in Shijak has already completed last December. The second phase includes construction of 140 houses. Construction of 110 of them has completed, whereas 30 more houses will complete within June.”

Shijak Municipality, like in every quake-hit areas, has granted rental bonus to the affected families until they have moved to their newly-built homes.