Entrance to 'Surmalu' Building Prohibited: Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations Provides Details

The section of the Surmalu shopping center that remains standing has undergone and is undergoing cooling work; there is no danger of explosion, but there is a risk of smoldering hotspots. This was stated by Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations David Hambaryan during a conversation with journalists at the scene.

"It is impossible to enter the building; it is dangerous for rescuers, and observations are being made from a safe distance. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing, and currently, we have 16 casualties, of which the identities of 14 have been established. Eight individuals are still being searched for," said the deputy minister.

According to him, work is being carried out with the responsible individuals for the site to ensure no issues arise due to the building's floor plan.

Hambaryan noted that the chances of finding any survivors in the rubble are decreasing. He added that the current overriding task is to clear the debris, after which efforts will be made to address the issues concerning the standing structure.

It is worth recalling that an explosion occurred at the Surmalu shopping center on August 14 at approximately 13:23. Sixty citizens have sought medical attention at hospitals in Yerevan, with seven continuing to receive treatment, while the others have been discharged after receiving appropriate medical care.