Unprecedented Rise in Emergency Incidents, Ministry of Emergency Situations

On July 19, the first meeting of the operational working group took place. During the meeting, Minister of Emergency Situations and head of the operational working group Felix Tsolakyan presented the procedure by which sessions will be held once every quarter, and immediately in case of urgent issues.

As a result of the discussions, proposals will be presented to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, regarding the resolution of problems. Minister Tsolakyan outlined the current situation in the country. According to the minister, emergency incidents have risen unprecedentedly in almost all areas compared to previous years, including fires, landslides, rockfalls, floodings, and so on.

Emphasizing the importance of establishing the operational working group, the minister highlighted the significance of efficient work, which can be achieved through the involvement of all interested organizations in a coordinated effort and the fulfillment of functional obligations.

Particularly effective discussions were held regarding the prevention of emergency situations and the reduction of possible risks, during which the individual responsibility of each department was emphasized. Felix Tsolakyan pointed out several causes of fire incidents, including the lack of irrigation or improper execution, and the negligent and irresponsible attitude of some citizens towards the environment and fire safety regulations.

The minister stressed that the Ministry of Emergency Situations conducts awareness-raising on fire safety regulations daily. In this context, the care provided by citizens, as well as the targeted actions of the police, are extremely important. During the peak of summer holiday season, maintaining safety regulations in the Lake Sevan recreation area is crucial.

Minister Tsolakyan proposed that the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the police, and the Sevan National Park ensure the safety of citizens resting along the lake's shores through joint efforts. Many other issues related to emergency situations were also discussed during the working group's meeting, resulting in a decision to present proposals related to the discussed topics within ten days to the secretary of the working group.