Today in Bishkek, the Ministry of Emergency Situations' equipment finds itself powerless in the face of human indifference and chaotic construction. At a recent briefing with journalists, the First Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations Azamat Mambetov presented alarming data: the number of fire-related casualties in Kyrgyzstan increased in 2025. The main reason for this situation, rescuers say, is serious congestion in courtyards and narrow passages filled with cars.
Mambetov noted that firefighters cannot quickly reach the sites of fires. Fire truck drivers fear hitting improperly parked cars in narrow passages, and often it becomes impossible to reach the scene of an incident due to chaotic construction.
The paradox is that while the agency is actively modernizing, the situation remains critical. Since 2020, about 670 units of new equipment have been purchased for the needs of the Ministry of Emergency Situations at a cost of over 3 billion soms. This includes about 200 modern fire trucks that can carry up to 6 tons of water. An additional 120 engineering vehicles are expected to be delivered, and negotiations are underway to purchase two cargo-passenger helicopters from South Korea, in addition to the three already in service.
According to the deputy minister, the agency is preparing for international certification under the auspices of the UN. Plans include the certification of two search and rescue teams in the north and south of the country, as well as the construction of 20 new fire and rescue stations across the republic, which should significantly reduce response times to emergencies.
Nevertheless, Azamat Mambetov emphasizes that even the most modern equipment and highly qualified specialists will not be able to cope with the situation if society does not recognize its responsibility. He urged both business leaders and ordinary citizens to pay attention to fire safety measures, avoid violations of building codes, and insure their homes. As long as access roads to houses remain blocked by personal vehicles, the risk of new casualties will persist, despite the government's efforts to modernize the service.
