Addressing the Dangers of a Partially Collapsed Building Is Not Within the Functions of the Ministry of Emergency Situations

It has been more than a month since the tragic incident at the "Surmalu" market on August 14, yet the market continues to operate despite the danger of collapse in the area. On September 21, the damaged building partially collapsed, resulting in three injured individuals being transported to the hospital.

In an interview with "Armenpress," market employee Hamik Avagyan stated that his car was damaged during the collapse on September 21, although it was parked in a permitted area. “No one warned us that the building could collapse again,” he said, adding that the building should be dismantled as soon as possible.

Arsen Saroyan, the deputy head of the National Center for Crisis Management at the Ministry of Emergency Situations, told "Armenpress" that the second collapse at "Surmalu" was predictable, as it was already a dangerous partially collapsed structure that should have been cordoned off, with access to people and vehicles restricted. He noted that between August 14 and 24, after the completion of search and rescue operations, the Ministry provided additional standby services for 2-3 days. Thus, the Ministry's functions were concluded.

“If we had had information about the danger, we would have certainly carried out awareness activities. The issue of eliminating the dangers posed by the partially collapsed building is not within the functions of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. After the investigative actions are completed, the building should be handed over to the relevant authorities. We are carrying out response processes,” Saroyan added. He indicated that the Ministry of Emergency Situations does not perform functions related to cleaning and dismantling the area.