Belgrade: Serbia is grappling with an escalating wildfire crisis as a record-breaking heatwave and strong winds fuel over 200 fires across the country. In response, the Serbian government has declared a national state of emergency, deploying armed forces and emergency personnel to the most affected regions.
The Ministry of the Interior confirmed on Monday that the fires have claimed one life and injured at least 14 people in the past 24 hours. The eastern city of Bor and the southern town of Kursumlija have been placed under emergency status, with Bor facing the brunt of the devastation.
Wildfires have scorched over 100 hectares near the mining town of Krivelj in Bor, threatening homes, infrastructure, and the environment. Serbian Armed Forces, supported by volunteers, local officials, and companies such as China-run Zijin Mining, are engaged in around-the-clock firefighting operations. Helicopters and water tankers are being used to combat the blazes in extremely challenging conditions.
Twelve new fires were reported on Monday in the Gornji Milanovac area of central Serbia, damaging agricultural structures and vehicles. Additional fires have been reported in Kragujevac, Prokuplje, Valjevo, and Nis, causing further destruction to homes, farmlands, and forests.
Interior Minister Ivica Dacic reported that 197 fires were logged on Sunday alone. “All available resources are engaged,” he stated, adding that police, rescue squads, and volunteers are on high alert. Authorities have issued strict warnings against the use of open flames and banned the burning of dry grass and rubbish.
Power supply disruptions have been implemented in affected regions, as the national energy distributor shut down lines in parts of southern and western Serbia to prevent further fire-related damage.
China’s growing involvement in Serbia’s mining and energy sectors has also extended to disaster relief efforts, with Chinese companies offering manpower and logistical support.
“The situation remains critical. There is no part of the country unaffected,” said Luka Causic, Acting Director of the Ministry of Interior’s Sector for Emergency Management. With weather forecasts predicting continued heat and dryness, officials are urging citizens to remain alert, report fire outbreaks by dialing 193, and cooperate fully with emergency protocols.
