The leader of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, reportedly reviewed a presentation on October 20 aimed at radically improving the emergency response system, as well as regulating the use of reservoirs and adjacent areas to ensure public safety.
During the presentation, it was noted that urban expansion, technological advancements, and climate change are posing new challenges to rescue services. At present, the location, infrastructure, and equipment of certain fire and rescue units supposedly fall short of fully meeting the strict requirements for prompt assistance.
The head of state emphasized that saving human life must remain the primary criterion when upgrading the system. To achieve this, the authorities intend to implement the 'golden minute' rule in practice, targeting a response time of 5-7 minutes for urban areas and 15-20 minutes for locations outside city centers.
Plans were presented to reorganize 25 fire and rescue units in districts and cities with populations exceeding 250,000, equipping them with modern machinery. Additionally, proposals were made to establish the 'Madad' national multi-profile special rescue center, an aviation-rescue department, and a research center for emergency management designed to operate in complex conditions.
Attention was also drawn to improving the operations of the '112' single dispatch service, monitoring the entire process from the receipt of an appeal to its execution, and strengthening information sharing among relevant services. The necessity of utilizing digital technologies and artificial intelligence in the sector was highlighted.
Furthermore, the necessity of expanding rescue services across water reservoirs was stressed. Out of 56 existing reservoirs, such services are reportedly established in only four, prompting a proposal to organize a professional rescue system modeled after the 'Karkidon' reservoir. Training programs for rescue divers and mandatory safety compliance for tourism enterprises operating around water bodies are also planned.
Source: kun.uz