Helicopters of the Armed Forces of BiH localized fire at Ponijeri in the municipality of Kakanj

(Patria) - Helicopters of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AF BiH) have been engaged again since the early morning hours of August 16, 2024, at the fire site in the locality of Ponijeri near Kakanj, as well as at the fire that threatened the "Tajan" Nature Park.

After two days of intensive action, the fire was successfully localized, with AF BiH helicopters dropping a total of 35,000 liters of water.

The firefighting was preceded by the preparation of a water intake, after terrain reconnaissance and situation assessment determined that the water intake locations from the Bosna River were not adequate. As a result, a temporary accumulation pool was built at the Tršće stadium near Kakanj to shorten the route to the fire site at Ponijeri.

In the engagement of helicopters of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina in firefighting, coordination with firefighting units on the ground was crucial. Thanks to this synergy, the fires that helicopters suppress from the air need to be completely extinguished by firefighting units. This approach enables efficient firefighting, protection of people and property, and minimization of damage and risks on the ground.

Helicopters of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina remain available to assist the civilian population in firefighting. Their readiness and engagement in crisis situations confirm the importance of joint efforts in protecting people and property throughout the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina.