Fire at Arevik National Park Still Uncontrolled: How Many Hectares Have Burned

The staff of the "Zangezur Biosphere Complex" State Non-Commercial Organization is conducting round-the-clock monitoring on site. This was reported by the Ministry of Environment.

A fire broke out in the "Arevik" National Park of the "Zangezur Biosphere Complex" at 13:34 on September 15, and firefighting efforts began immediately. The initial fire source is located about 5.5 kilometers away from the dirt road and is inaccessible.

The fire is spreading rapidly due to the presence of fir forests, dry shrubs, and dried oak and mulberry trees in the area, which is also water-scarce, coupled with strong winds.

Firefighting efforts involve the Rescue Forces of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the rapid response group, employees from all branches, staff from Meghri's municipal utility, soldiers from Military Unit N, and volunteer citizens. Due to the inaccessibility of the terrain, equipment and additional resources cannot be deployed.

On September 16, a discussion was held at the Syunik Regional Administration regarding the organization of firefighting efforts. On September 20, a helicopter was also deployed for firefighting activities. According to satellite monitoring data from September 20, approximately 423 hectares have burned. Currently, there are smoldering hotspots in the area.

More detailed information regarding damage, area affected, and sources will be provided later. At this moment, smoldering spots are still present in the area where the fire broke out.

The staff of the "Zangezur Biosphere Complex" State Non-Commercial Organization continues to monitor the site around the clock.