Following 72 hours of uninterrupted field operations and three consecutive nights on the fireline, the complex firefighting operation within Pelister National Park has been successfully concluded.
The wildfire swept through dense black and Scots pine forest stands, making it one of the most demanding open-space fire suppression operations in North Macedonia this season.
Seamless Institutional Coordination
Despite harsh weather conditions and rugged alpine terrain, the containment effort succeeded due to seamless coordination among national institutions, regional fire brigades, aviation units, and volunteer groups.
Comprehensive institutional support was organized under the leadership of Stojance Angelov, Director of the Protection and Rescue Directorate (SSM).
Participating operational units included:
- Park & Fire Brigades: Pelister National Park units, professional firefighting units (TPPE) from Bitola, Resen, Kavadarci, Negotino, Rankovce, and REK Bitola.
- Volunteers & Municipal Support: Volunteer Fire Departments (DPD Arhangel, Kocani, Valandovo), SSM rapid response forces, Public Enterprise National Forests, and heavy machinery provided by Bitola Municipality, Resen Municipality, and JP Strezevo.
- Aerial Firefighting: Helicopters from the Army Air WING and SSM Air Tractor aircraft.
- Private Sector & Local Volunteers: Numerous local businesses and private citizens providing continuous ground support.
Operational Success Under Extreme Conditions
Simultaneously directing ground crews, heavy machinery, and continuous water drops from aircraft within a confined, high-altitude zone presented a complex tactical challenge. Many team members remained active on the fireline for over 48 straight hours.
Pelister National Park extends its gratitude to all institutions, firefighters, pilots, and volunteers from across the country whose effort helped preserve Mount Baba’s forests.
