MyCoast App: Complaints about Violations – Which Areas Are in the Spotlight.
MyCoast App: Complaints about Violations – Which Areas Are in the Spotlight
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The increasing encroachment on beaches in Greece has led to the development of the MyCoast-App, a government initiative aimed at addressing illegal occupation by tourist businesses. Since its launch, the app has received more than 8,900 complaints, with over 1,100 of these being verified as legitimate by named individuals. This tool allows users to report violations involving the misuse of public beach space, such as the placement of sunbeds and umbrellas outside the allotted areas.
In places like Preveza, where complaints number nearly 1,000, business owners have been reporting each other to gain an advantage in the competitive tourism industry. A similar situation occurred in Halkidiki, another region with a substantial number of complaints. Here, it was discovered that several reports were made by rival business owners and did not relate to actual violations.
Authorities are tasked with the rigorous job of verifying these complaints. They conduct on-site inspections, often with the assistance of the police and coast guard, and sometimes even involving prosecutors. This is a complex process requiring the collaboration of various agencies to ensure the management and fair use of coastal areas.
Top Complaints by Region
Region |
Complaints |
|---|---|
Halkidiki |
1,404 |
Preveza |
967 |
Eastern Attica |
900 |
Dodecanese Islands |
766 |
Cyclades Islands |
680 |
The regions with the highest number of complaints illustrate the widespread issue of beach encroachment. These areas have numerous tourist establishments, each vying for beach space to attract visitors.
Methods of Inspection
To manage the flood of complaints, several methods are used:
- On-Site Inspections: Mixed teams visit the beaches to check for violations.
- Drones and Satellite Imagery: These tools assist in monitoring large coastal areas efficiently.
- Direct Reports: Prioritised complaints from individuals help streamline the process.
Legislative Framework
The Ministry of Finance oversees this initiative, supporting the use of technology to enhance enforcement. Beach concessions are governed by strict rules, but enforcement has been challenging due to the sheer number of businesses and the high stakes involved.
Citizen Involvement
The MyCoast app empowers citizens to participate in monitoring their local beaches. By submitting complaints, users can help maintain public access and prevent the unauthorised occupation of coastal spaces.
Challenges Faced
Despite the app’s success, the process has not been without challenges. There have been instances of fake reports, primarily from businesses attempting to undermine their competitors. For example, in Preveza, two business owners filed over 100 complaints against each other. Such actions complicate the efforts of the authorities and waste resources.
Impact of the MyCoast App
The implementation of the MyCoast app represents a significant step towards preserving public beach access in Greece. It highlights the importance of digital tools in environmental conservation and regulation enforcement. The app provides an easy and accessible way for residents and tourists alike to report violations, ensuring that beaches remain open and free from unauthorised commercial activities.
Authorities continue to adapt and refine their approach, using technology to monitor and enforce regulations effectively. This ensures that Greece’s pristine beaches are protected for future generations, maintaining their natural beauty and accessibility for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Main Violations Reported in MyCoast App?
Violations reported in the MyCoast App typically involve illegal activities such as businesses encroaching on beaches by setting up sunbeds, umbrellas, and chairs without proper permits. These actions disrupt public access and violate environmental regulations.
How Does the MyCoast App Handle and Investigate Complaints?
The MyCoast App has a streamlined process for managing complaints. Users can submit their grievances through the app, which are then reviewed by specialised units. These units conduct ground inspections based on the data received to verify the claims and take appropriate actions if needed.
Can Users Appeal Against Unfounded Complaints?
Yes, users who believe that a complaint lodged against them is unfounded can appeal the decision. The appeal process allows for a fair review where users can present evidence to support their innocence, ensuring that all sides are heard before a final decision is made.
What Are the Penalties for Violating MyCoast App Guidelines?
Penalties for violating MyCoast App guidelines can range from fines to mandatory removal of the unauthorised setups. In some cases, repeat offenders might face stricter consequences, including temporary or permanent bans from operating in certain areas.
Which Features of MyCoast App Are Receiving the Most Complaints?
The feature receiving the most complaints within the MyCoast App is related to beach encroachment by businesses. This includes complaints about establishments exceeding their allotted space for setting up sunbeds and umbrellas, which has been a major issue in popular coastal areas.
What Measures is the MyCoast App Implementing to Improve Targeted Areas?
To address areas with a high number of complaints, the MyCoast App is enhancing its monitoring and enforcement strategies. This includes increasing the frequency of inspections and deploying more resources to ensure compliance. Continuous updates and user feedback are also being used to make the app more effective and user-friendly.
