From December 4 to 5, the RS Deputy Director of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of RA, r/s Colonel Egor Karapetyan was on a working visit to Syunik province. During the visit, comprehensive inspections were conducted. The purpose of the visit was to assess the performance of the regional rescue departments of the service, check the operational maintenance of equipment and supplies, evaluate the technical preparedness and ensure the readiness of personnel response to potential risks, particularly those associated with the winter season.

R/S Colonel Karapetyan visited the Syunik Regional Rescue Department of the Rescue Service of MIA and its subordinate units. He also toured the Fire and Rescue Squads in Sisian, Goris, Kapan, Kajaran and Meghri. The purpose of these visits was to monitor the operations on-site and familiarize himself with the existing issues within the units.

Special attention was paid to the preparedness for the winter season of the service and the importance of providing urgent assistance to people, especially in conditions of heavy snowfall, blizzards and difficult road conditions due to black ice, as well as ensuring the readiness of units in case of various scenarios becoming more complicated.

The Deputy Director accompanied by the Head of Syunik Regional Rescue Department, r/s Colonel Davit Hovhannisyan, also inspected the first aid point located in the province. The equipment of the first aid point was checked on site and the technical capabilities to provide accessible, fast and effective assistance to citizens in emergency situations were discussed.

During the inspection, the specific challenges faced by the service were presented, particularly the recurring issues on interstate highways. These reasons of issues primarily were impassable road conditions, complex terrain and other emergency factors.

Egor Karapetyan highlighted the importance of the readiness and equipment for working in emergency conditions for the personnel. He instructed the staff to be particularly vigilant during intense precipitation, focusing on tasks such as towing, escorting and ensuring the safety of people. He also urged all employees to fully recognize their responsibilities and be prepared to act swiftly in any situation, as the activity of rescuers can often become more complicated under such conditions.

A tour was also conducted in Crisis Management Regional Center of Syunik Regional Rescue Department to familiarize with the newly obtained warning system, designed to ensure the proper execution of warning procedures in emergency situations. During a discussion with the personnel, the importance of adhering to the legal standards of conduct and professional ethics for rescuers was emphasized. It was noted that maintaining these standards was crucial for upholding the reputation of the Rescue Service and setting an example of professional behavior.

At the end of the working visit, the Deputy Director issued clear instructions and recommendations aimed at improving the efficiency of the service. He emphasized the need to revise the operational framework, clarify procedures and enhance the response mechanisms. Cooperation between the fire and rescue squads was also highlighted as a key priority, given that the complex terrain and impassable interstate roads in Syunik province often present new challenges that require joint efforts and full preparedness.

Such visits and inspections help to better understand local issues, identify the need for improved coordination and explore opportunities to enhance the rapid response mechanisms.