Fire Still Strong in Borjomi Forest on Day 6

2 Georgian, 2 Turkish, 1 Azeri and 1 Belarusian helicopters have resumed fire extinguish works in Borjomi forest early this morning. One Turkish plane is also involved in the works.

Due to the reignited pockets of fire in the forest, the situation remains grave at the site.

Around 1000 servicemen of the Ministry of Defense have arrived at the hot spot this morning.

The Prime Minister of Georgia, Giorgi Kvirikashvili said that the reignited pockets have been localized and the locals are not in danger.

“Despite the deterioration of the situation periodically, we have positive dynamics,” he added.

World Bank Regional Director for the South Caucasus Mercy Tembon met with the Prime Minister of Georgia in Borjomi.

She said the World Bank is ready for assistance in both financial and technical aspects.

“We are ready to help Georgia in the crisis and after the crisis period. We will provide financial and technical assistance to Georgia. A group of environmental experts will assess the current situation in order to develop a specific plan,” she said.

The fire in Borjomi started on August 20. Georgia’s Infrastructure Minister Zurab Alavidze stated that around 100 hectares of the forest have been destroyed.

By Thea Morrison