Video: Felix Tsolakyan Criticizes Firefighters

Today, another fire broke out at the Sports and Concert Complex, but this was part of a training exercise organized by the Ministry of Emergency Situations. According to the scenario, the cause of the fire was an explosion that occurred while welding operations were being carried out in the Sports Complex auditorium.

The task was to evacuate 70 people. There were 4 injured individuals, one of whom was in critical condition. A medical helicopter was brought to transport the seriously injured individual from the complex territory.

The Minister of Emergency Situations, Felix Tsolakyan, also observed the training exercise. He praised the collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Gazprom, and Viola Water, but also noted some issues.

“The hydrants are not fully operational, as far as I understood. The first task should have been to ensure there was no water issue,” said the minister.

It later became evident that there was also a problem related to the hydrant’s position—it was not suitable for supplying water to firefighters using a 4-meter hose.

“This should have been the primary concern—this part should have been secured so that the operational headquarters and firefighters could work effectively. In working according to the plan, we must pay attention to every detail, and one of those details is water; the firefighter must be provided with everything they need. We will inform the leadership about these issues,” Tsolakyan added.

In response to a question from SHANTNEWS.am, Felix Tsolakyan stated that the issue is characteristic of the entire republic.

“In the city, we primarily use the water supply vehicles of the city hall, and there is also a problem there—they have been modified for winter work, and they are no longer functional as water supply vehicles. Now we encounter this problem at every turn, while fires have not diminished; they have actually increased in recent days,” said the minister, adding that steps are being taken to address the issue.