A few hours ago, an exceptionally complex and high-risk aerial operation was carried out as part of efforts to contain the fire below Mount Sharalia in Pirin National Park. The fire broke out at around 20:30 yesterday at an altitude of 2150 metres, in a hard-to-reach area with extremely steep terrain.

A Border Police helicopter successfully delivered water and fire-fighting equipment to the teams working on the ground, reaching a steep and hard-to-access mountain ridge. The manoeuvre was carried out by the helicopter hovering and resting on just one landing gear on the rocky terrain, which allowed the necessary materials to be unloaded safely.

According to those involved in the operation, this is an unprecedented operation of its kind ever carried out in Pirin National Park. It is a shining example of the excellent coordination between the teams of the Pirin National Park Directorate, the Border Police, the Regional Directorate for Fire Safety and Civil Protection-Blagoevgrad, and the Mountain Rescue Service. Thanks to the professionalism, meticulous preparation and courage of all involved, the necessary equipment reached the source of the fire despite the extremely rugged mountain terrain.

The Director of the Pirin National Park Rosen Banenski, who has been at the site of the fire from the very beginning, expresses his gratitude to all the teams who, through their tireless work and dedication, continue the fight to protect one of Bulgaria’s most valuable natural areas.