Georgian Government mobilises defense forces for heavy snowfall relief

The Georgian Dream government on Tuesday announced that the country’s defense forces will assist in providing aid to those affected by the severe snowfall in Western Georgia.

The government confirmed the move through a post on Facebook, stating that the defense forces would support the population in areas impacted by the heavy snow. The decree for this response was issued by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

Details regarding the scale of the operation, including the number of troops deployed, have yet to be released.

Since February 20, heavy snowfall has paralyzed transportation in Guria and Adjara, cutting off many villages from the rest of the country. The situation is dire for citizens, particularly in Guria, where locals have expressed frustration over what they perceive as the government’s lack of response.

The adverse weather has also affected other regions, including Samegrelo and Imereti, with widespread power outages and disruptions. Batumi Airport has been temporarily closed as a result of the snowstorm.