Landslide in Racha: Live Blog
ALL TIMES ARE LOCAL
Friday, September 15
11:43 — Financial assistance
The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Garibashvili announced an initiative to provide one-time financial assistance to the families of the individuals (officially 32) who tragically lost their lives in the Shovi landslide incident. According to the Prime Minister, families of the deceased will receive 20,000 Gel per deceased family member in assistance. Replacement housing will also be provided to those who lost their homes or whose homes were rendered uninhabitable as a result of the disaster.
Sunday, September 10
17:30– Another found dead
Another body was found by the firefighters of the Emergency Management Service of the Ministry of Interior in Racha, in the bed of the Chanchakhi River. In Oni district, the search and rescue operations in the disaster area are continuing. At present, 32 bodies have been found in the disaster zone and the search for 1 person is actively underway.
Tuesday, August 29
According to the Defense Ministry, its employee, 50-year-old Temur Kharchilava, who was involved in the rescue work in Shovi, allegedly died of a heart attack.
Thursday, August 24
18:00 — Two more found dead
According to the head of the Emergency Management Service, rescuers found the bodies of two more people in the disaster zone in Shovi, bringing the death toll to 31. 2 people are still being searched for.
Tuesday, August 22
14:25– Another found dead
According to MIA, rescuers found another body in disaster zone, bringing the death toll to 29. 4 people are still being searched for.
Sunday, August 20
14:25 — Another found dead
Rescuers found another body 55 kilometers from the epicenter of the disaster, bringing the death toll to 28. According to the Ministry of the Interior, 5 people are still being searched for.
Friday, August 18
According to the Partnership for Human Rights (PHR), the Georgian Prosecutor’s Office has complied with the organization’s request and recognized the mother of Davit Beriashvili, who died in the Shovi disaster zone on August 3, as the victim’s legal successor. The organization believes that the investigation should determine whether there was an official crime during the Shovi tragedy – the negligence of officials in organizing search and rescue operations.
Thursday, August 17
18:37 — Another found dead
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the death toll in the Shovi disaster site has risen to 27. Officially, 6 people are declared as missing.
Wednesday, August 16
14:00 — Georgian President attends funeral of Shovi disaster victims
Irakli Kupradze, the general secretary of the party “Lelo for Georgia”, disseminated the information about Georgia’s President Salome Zurabishvili “without media, without photos, without anything,” arrived in Kakheti for the funeral of Giorgi and Sofi Karalashvili, who died in a landslide in Shovi, “which was a sign of respect and a great comfort for the family.”
Tuesday, August 15
18:37 — Another found dead
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the death toll in the Shovi disaster site has risen to 26. Officially, 7 people are declared as missing.
Monday, August 14
19:25 — Opposition summons Gomelauri to parliament
The United National Movement announced that the opposition will summon Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri to parliament for an interpellation on the Shovi disaster. Tina Bokuchava, the leader of the UNM faction, has already registered the request with the parliament.
17:05 — Another found dead
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the death toll in the Shovi disaster site has risen to 25. Officially, 8 people are declared as missing.
Sunday, August 13
17:30 — Internal Affairs Minister visited Shovi
On 14 August, Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri arrived in the Shovi disaster zone. Speaking to journalists, he said that he was late to visit the disaster site because he had been in Turkey for two weeks due to his father’s illness. He spoke about the problem of helicopters that arrived in Shovi within 3 hours of the landslide and were not properly equipped to carry out rescue operations at night. According to him, Georgia has 6 helicopters, 3 of which are new and will arrive next year.
Regarding the night flight of the existing 3 helicopters, he noted that the helicopters have the right equipment to fly at night, but: “The weather was very bad. They dodged the clouds for almost two hours in order to fly into the valley. Nevertheless, a helicopter came down, worked in the middle, on the island where these 70 people were, and took them to safety. On the other side, on the slope, our policemen were already there. They had food too, it was a safe place. It was getting dark, and as the flight was dangerous, we didn’t risk it any more. The next day we evacuated those who were still there”.
Commenting on the ongoing work in the disaster zone, Gomelauri noted that 60% of the collapsed mass has already been checked. At present, 9 people are officially listed as missing.
Friday, August 11
18:00 — Another 2 found dead
According to the statement of the Minister of Regional Development and Infrastructure of Georgia, Irakli Karseladze, 2 more bodies have been found at the disaster site. This brings the death toll to 24. Currently, 9 individuals are being actively sought.
12:10 — Another found dead
The death toll in the Shovi disaster zone has risen to 22, according to Temur Mghebrishvili, the head of the Emergency Situations Management Service. One body was discovered in a Rioni riverbed, with ongoing efforts to recover it. Additionally, a human lower limb has been found. Currently, 11 individuals are being actively sought.
Wednesday, August 9
20:44 — Findings of the National Environmental Agency
Following the Shovi Landslide disaster, the National Environmental Agency revealed satellite data showing a 500,000 cubic meter rock mass collapse near the Buba glacier in the Bubistskali river valley. This resulted in a 62-hectare glacial fragmentation and the release of subglacial waters. Ongoing investigations aim to determine the exact water volume. Notably, meteorological data from the valley’s station and radar did not record intense rains during that time.
Nino Tandilashvili, First Deputy Minister of Environment Protection and Agriculture stated during a press briefing that: “There was information from a water level gauge station that did not record any drop in water level either before the disaster or during the disaster… [Satellite images] show that there was no large water mass and lake ponding, it was a very instantaneous, so to speak, collapse of the rock avalanche mass, which collided with the glacier mass and broke through and brought it down to the Shove resort in a very short time. This proves once again that when we talk about the development of such natural events we are dealing with very complex processes… a series of events coincided with each other and finally we got the natural disaster with the magnitude of what we have seen together… from the point of view of our specialists it is practically impossible to predict a disaster of this magnitude”.
14:20 — Another found dead
In Shovi, one more body was found in the disaster zone. The number of dead has increased to 21. This was confirmed by MIA.
11:09 — Another found dead
According to the Speaker of the Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, one more body was found in the disaster zone in Shovi. The number of dead has increased to 20. He stated this at a briefing held at the office of the “Georgian Dream” party.
Tuesday, August 8
21:45 — The information about Zurab Bibileishvili was wrong
Minister Irakli Karseladze explained that the data regarding Zurab Bibileishvili, initially believed to be missing in the Shovi natural disaster, was provided inaccurately. The information came from a relative of Bibileishvili. Karseladze noted that the specified name and surname were not cross-referenced with relevant databases, prompting a need to verify with the informant. This led to the person being found in Tbilisi and subsequently removed from the missing list. Upon contacting the informant, it was confirmed that the incorrect name and surname had been entered, and the individual had not been in the Shovi area at all.
20:42 — One person from the missing list is alive
One of the individuals initially reported as missing, Zurab Bibileishvili, has been located alive and well. Operative-investigative findings confirm that Zurab is in good health and is currently situated outside the disaster-affected area. Temur Mghebrishvili, the head of the Emergency Situations Management Service, provided this update to the press.
11:56 — Another found dead
In Shovi, the death toll in the disaster zone has risen to 19, according to MIA. As of current data, 16 individuals are currently being sought in the affected area.
Monday, August 7
14:20 — Police officer on duty has died in Shovi
Mirian Chelidze, a police officer and investigator with the investigation unit under the Ambrolauri Police Division, has died, as reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Chelidze was on duty in the Oni municipality, overseeing public order as part of ongoing rescue operations in the disaster-affected area. Unfortunately, he fell unwell and passed away while being transported to the hospital.
11:10 — Investigation Launched Following Shovi Tragedy
The head of the Emergency Management Service, Temur Mghebrishvili, has announced that an investigation has commenced concerning the Shovi disaster. He indicated that the case was initiated under two articles; however, there is a possibility of reclassification.
00:00 — Mourning Day in Georgia
August 7 was declared a Day of Mourning by the decision of the Prime Minister of Georgia in honor of those who died as a result of the natural disaster Shovi resort. From 00:00 on August 7 until 00:00 on August 8, the national flags will be half-staff on the whole territory of Georgia.
Sunday, August 6
14:26 — Minors are among the deceased
Defense Minister Juansher Burchuladze reveals that among the deceased in the Racha disaster zone, there are several minors.
12:16 — 5 more bodies identified
Racha-Lechkhum-Kvemo Svaneti Majority Deputy Gocha Enukidze reports that 12 victims of the Shovi natural disaster have been identified. He informed the media that an additional five bodies are undergoing identification through DNA tests.
11:37 — Another found dead
In Shovi, the death toll in the disaster zone has risen to 18, according to MIA. As of current data, 17 individuals are currently being sought in the affected area.
Saturday, August 5
20:40 — Another found dead
The death toll from the Shovi disaster has climbed to 17, while the count of individuals still missing stands at 18.
19:17 — Another found dead
MIA confirmed that another body has been found at the disaster site.
17:40 — 7 of the dead identified
The MIA issued a statement indicating that 7 of the 16 bodies have been successfully identified. The identification process is challenging due to the deteriorated condition of the remains.
17:29 — One of the dead is a Russian citizen
Russian Federation Interests Section at the Embassy of Switzerland in Tbilisi informs that one of the dead found at the Shovi disaster site is a citizen of Russia – Ksenya Tricheva.
17:03 — Another 2 found dead
In Shovi, the number of people who died as a result of the disaster rose to 15. Civil.ge was informed about this by MIA. A few minutes ago, rescuers found the body of another person as a result of search and rescue operations at the disaster site.
15:20 — Another found dead
According to MIA, the number of dead has reached 13.
14:15 — One of the dead is a Ukrainian citizen
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs press service notified “Europeyska Pravda” that according to Oleg Nikolenko, the spokesperson for the Ministry, Alina Polikovska, a Ukrainian citizen, was identified as one of the deceased in Shovi. Her son remains missing.
13:22 — Another found dead
Another body has been discovered in the Shovi disaster zone, as confirmed to Civil.ge by MIA. Presently, official records indicate that 12 individuals have been found dead.
11:53 — Helicopters took families of the missing to view disaster site
Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs and Head of the Emergency Situations Management Service, Temur Mghebrishvili, along with family members and relatives of citizens who are currently uncontactable, flew to the disaster’s epicenter. They were briefed on the specifics of the search and rescue operation and gained insight into the conditions within the disaster zone. Drones were deployed for a comprehensive survey of the area.
11:12 — A temporary bridge will be installed today
Minister of Regional Development and Infrastructure, Irakli Karseladze, has reported the construction of a temporary bridge in Racha that is scheduled for installation today. Karseladze told journalists: “…since this morning, police units and rescuers have been transferred to the other side. There is full mobilization in the disaster area, and searches and other types of work are going on. Everything is being done to make maximum progress in the search of the cottages and the surrounding area. At the same time, we are cutting a new temporary road to approach the area from the lower side”.
Friday, August 4
19:45 — Georgian Defense Forces Arrive in Shovi
The Defense Forces of the Ministry of Defense of Georgia are in the disaster area in the municipality of Oni. The military will be involved in search and rescue operations with special equipment.
17:58 — Helicopters to take families of the missing to view disaster site
Temur Mghebrishvili, the head of the emergency management service at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, conferred with relatives of the victims in the Shovi disaster area. Mghebrishvili noted that helicopters will transport the families of the missing to the epicenter of the disaster to see how difficult the situation is there.
16:30 — Azerbaijan is prepared to aid in rescue operations
According to the Ministry of Azerbaijan, Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held a telephone conversation with the Foreign Minister of Georgia, Ilia Darchiashvili. Minister Bayramov affirmed Azerbaijan’s continuous support and willingness to aid in rescue operations and disaster recovery.
16:21 — 25 officially considered as missing
In accordance with statements from the Minister of Health, Zurab Azarashvili, a search is currently underway for 25 individuals within the Shovi disaster area. Azarashvili assured journalists that the health of citizens evacuated from the disaster zone is not at risk.
15:50 — Another 4 found dead
According to MIA, 4 more people have been found dead, bringing the total number of dead to 11.
15:00 — President’s briefing
Georgia’s President Salome Zurabishvili expressed her deep sorrow at the tragedy at Racha’s resort of Shovi, offered her condolences to the families of the victims and said she was praying for the rescue of the rest of those still unaccounted for.
14:20 — 7 Dead, Approx. 210 Rescued, 31 Lost
While speaking to journalists, the Prime Minister of Georgia verified that rescuers had located the seventh deceased individual. The MIA authenticated this information to Civil.ge Prime Minister Garibashvili also mentioned that rescue efforts will persist actively in the region during the weekend and declared Monday, August 7, as the official Day of Mourning. Additionally, he declared that Georgia’s army and Defense Forces would be engaged in this process alongside the rescuers.
13:07 — Red Cross hotline
The Georgia Red Cross Society has released its dedicated hotline number and called upon the public to share any information regarding missing individuals in Shovi. Those with relevant details are encouraged to contact the society at the hotline: 032 2 501 105.
“Disaster Management, First Aid, Restoring Family Links and Psychosocial Support teams of the Georgian Red Cross Amrbolauri branch have been mobilized to the scene of the accident,” – stated in their statement.
12:50 — Speaker of the Parliament and majority MPs arrive in Racha
Shalva Papuashvili arrived in the disaster-affected Racha region. Currently, the Speaker of the Parliament is participating in the emergency staff meeting focused on resolving the Shovi disaster, joined by members of the parliamentary majority.
12:17 — PM arrives in Racha
Georgia’s Prime Minister, Irakli Garibashvili, has reached the disaster-stricken area of Racha. In the Oni municipality’s town hall, the Prime Minister conducted a meeting at the emergency headquarters tasked with managing the Shovi disaster.
12:10 — 6 Dead, 140 rescued
The latest official report from the MIA states that six people have been found dead, and 140 others have been moved to a safe area. In the disaster-affected area, firefighters and rescuers continue their ongoing rescue operations. Relevant units from the Ministry of Internal Affairs are on-site, using specialized equipment and a team of canine experts to assist in the efforts.
10:04 — Disaster response and road cleaning efforts resumed
According to the Roads Department of Georgia, disaster recovery and road cleaning efforts have intensified since this morning, with all required equipment mobilized on-site. Currently, 21 units of equipment are operational, with additional units set to be gradually deployed throughout the day.
10:02 — 35 people not reachable
Georgia’s Minister of Regional Development and Infrastructure, Irakli Karseladze, reported that as of 10:02 AM, 35 individuals in Shovi cannot be reached. He shared this updated information with the media.
08:30 — PM leaves for Shovi
Georgia’s Prime Minister, Irakli Garibashvili, departed for the disaster-stricken area of Racha. The Prime Minister’s press office confirmed this information to 1TV.ge.
06:00 — 2 Border Police helicopters arrive in Shovi
According to MIA, starting at 6:00 AM today, two Border Police helicopters joined the rescue operation again. Personnel from the Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi, and Kvemo Svaneti police departments, along with patrol police units, are also active at the accident site.
Thursday, August 3
23:50 — Hotline activated
The MIA has announced that an emergency meeting held at Oni municipality’s town hall resulted in the establishment of a 24-hour hotline. The public is urged to reach out with any information regarding missing persons by contacting the provided number: 598 913 089.
23:03 — “Sunset Shovi” visitors are safe
According to the hotel “Sunset Shovi”, all of their visitors and staff members are safe and moved to a safe area.
22:03 — 2 found dead
During the ongoing rescue operation in Oni Township, the Ministry of the Interior’s Disaster Management Service found two people dead.
20:09 — 70 Rescued
Amid the ongoing rescue operation in the Oni municipality, MIA personnel have successfully relocated around 70 citizens from the disaster-stricken area to a secure zone.
19:03 — Evacuation began
According to the mayor of Oni, Sergo Khidesheli, the evacuation of citizens from Shovi has begun.
16:50 — 2 helicopters left for Shovi
Emergency management service rescuers, accompanied by representatives of other police units, departed for the accident site using two helicopters from the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ border police.
15:00 — Shovi landslide occurred
A landslide has occurred in Shovi, Oni Municipality in the Racha region of Georgia, near the hotel “Sunset Shovi”.
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