Ağrı opens new disaster training course to boost rescue capacity

A new Disaster Training Course has been inaugurated in Ağrı to enhance the region's capacity for responding to emergencies and natural disasters. The facility features an Urban Search Module as its primary training component, designed to simulate debris scenarios. This module will allow search and rescue personnel, support teams, and organizations like AKUT to practice technical entry into rubble and various field operations.

During the opening ceremony, Governor Önder Bozkurt announced that the province will expand its accredited response capabilities. In addition to the two existing accredited teams, ten new teams will be formed, totaling approximately 287 to 290 personnel. These teams will be trained in specialized areas including urban search, emergency shelter, terrain, flood, avalanche, and mountain rescue. Furthermore, 10 support teams consisting of about 313 personnel will provide logistical and operational assistance to AFAD and non-governmental organizations.

Governor Bozkurt also highlighted a significant increase in local volunteerism, noting that the number of AFAD support volunteers in the province has grown from approximately 1,070 to nearly 2,200 following recent training initiatives.