“The landslide developed suddenly, making it virtually impossible to prevent this event," stated Mr. Vasil Gedevanishvili
Geology
The head of the National Environmental Agency, Vasil Gedevanishvili, expressed his deep sorrow regarding the incident and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased. He reported that multiple teams of geologists from the agency are currently conducting detailed studies and analyses to assess potential threats and determine whether any additional danger still persists. A comprehensive report will be released by the National Environmental Agency in the near future.
"Based on preliminary data, it has been confirmed that a sub-avalanche-type landslide occurred last night, resulting in the fall of approximately 150,000 cubic meters of material from the rock, which destroyed and damaged residential houses. The landslide developed suddenly, and it was virtually impossible to prevent this event," stated Mr. Vasil Gedevanishvili.
According to the head of the National Environmental Agency, climate change has contributed to an increase in the frequency of natural events, both globally and in Georgia.
"Every year we conduct a hazard assessment across the country; we are identifying potential geological dangers, which, unfortunately, are very numerous in Georgia and exceed several tens of thousands. In this specific case, this particular slope was not assessed. There are many slopes in the village. We have assessed threats on a broader scale for the entire village. The prepared report also includes information on other villages. Naturally, risks are present, and the National Environmental Agency is working with a foreign expert to conduct more detailed analyses. A recommendation to evacuate the village was not issued, as such a decision requires additional studies and risk assessments. The agency is actively working to identify landslide-prone areas as comprehensively as possible. Given the large scale of these processes and the increasing frequency of events associated with climate change, it is quite challenging to study all specific locations," stated Mr. Vasil Gedevanishvili.
According to the National Environmental Agency, no specific recommendations have been prepared regarding this particular landslide. Further research is required to assess potential landslides and associated hazards, as determining the risks of these events necessitates additional studies. It is important to note that no system exists globally that can precisely predict when and where a landslide will occur.
"By additional studies, I mean conducting thorough analyses of each potentially landslide-prone area to assess the associated risks. However, even these analyses cannot completely eliminate the risks. Unfortunately, we are often powerless in the face of natural disasters. We strive to mitigate such risks, but it is extremely challenging and, in many cases, impossible," stated Mr. Vasil Gedevanishvili.
As the head of the agency noted, there were no specific statements or messages from the families; there was only one statement related to rockfall. A respective conclusion was made in this regard, and a recommendation was issued, but it applied to an adjacent location and not connected to the above-mentioned slope.
“First and foremost, I would like to express my profound sorrow regarding the incident and extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.”
