Head of Rosleskhoz assesses Komi’s readiness for the fire‑risk season

Regional authorities have assured full readiness of forces and resources for the upcoming period of wildfire threats. This was confirmed by a visit to the republic by the head of Rosleskhoz (the Federal Forestry Agency).

In Syktyvkar, officials reviewed the results of forestry work in the Northwestern Federal District and discussed objectives for 2026. As part of the trip, Ivan Sovetnikov, head of the Federal Forestry Agency, reviewed the operations of the Komi Forest Fire Centre.

The federal official was shown refurbished specialised equipment and gear. The visit also included a trip to training exercises conducted by the parachute‑descent fire service at a training ground. The drill involved 22 specialists from the Troitsko‑Pechorsky, Koygorodsky, and Ukhta districts, who carried out descents from a Mi‑8 helicopter.

“Komi is a significant forest region of the country. The effectiveness of firefighting efforts directly depends on the speed and coordination of the units’ work. It’s clear that preparations here are being carried out actively,” emphasised Ivan Sovetnikov.

Special attention was given to the introduction of digital technologies. The capabilities of the Komi Republic Geoportal and the information‑analytical resource Forest Fires of the Republic of Komi were presented. This system enables real‑time monitoring of the situation, resource management, and fire spread forecasting. Discussions also covered the possibility of connecting the regional Geoportal to the federal information system of the forestry complex.

The republic is demonstrating a high level of preparedness for the fire season. Currently, the centre overseeing 10 aviation units is completing equipment maintenance, while firefighters are practising essential skills, including parachute deployment.

“Last year, all 67 registered fires were promptly extinguished: 72 % were contained within the first 24 hours, and the total affected area was only 336 hectares. Threats to populated areas were successfully avoided. In addition, we provided assistance to the Trans‑Baikal Territory. Our system is ready for the challenges of the new season,” noted Roman Polshvedkin, Minister of Natural Resources of the region.