Hungary has successfully defended itself against another flood, demonstrating its capability to manage such crises, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said during an interview on TV2’s Tények programme on Tuesday evening. The Prime Minister, speaking after inspecting the flood defence work in the Danube settlement of Dunaszekcső, declared that Hungary had won this battle against the flood, scoring 1:0. He noted that the receding of the water, which can sometimes pose challenges, is not expected to cause any problems this time.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the water levels are dropping faster than expected, with the peak water levels subsiding two days earlier than initially predicted. He praised the exceptional work of the water management professionals, calling their efforts ‘fantastic’, and expressed gratitude to the soldiers and police for their contributions.
This is the fifth flood defence operation Orbán has overseen as Prime Minister. In the interview he emphasized that the collaboration between the state and local governments during this effort was the most seamless to date. He recounted the significant moment of ordering the cutting of the dike at the Lajta (Leitha) River to allow floodwaters into a reservoir, something he had never had to do before.
Orbán also underscored that Hungary’s flood defence measures were of an outstanding international standard. He credited this success, in part, to Hungary’s geographical advantage, explaining that most of the rainfall occurs in the mountains, allowing Hungary two to three days to prepare for the floodwaters to arrive. ‘We defended well, that’s true, but we also have a geographical advantage,’ the Prime Minister remarked.
With the flood now receding, Orbán stressed that an important phase of flood management is beginning, which involves public health tasks such as cleaning and clearing up the affected areas.
The Prime Minister described the flood as one of the largest ever experienced on the Danube and noting the serious dangers that were present. He acknowledged the significant efforts undertaken by the country and, while there were uplifting moments and anecdotes to share, he also recognized the risky periods. Had there not been such smooth cooperation between the parties involved in the defence efforts, the situation could have turned into a much more serious disaster, Orbán concluded.
Related articles:
