Russia's Emergencies Ministry plans to complete the first phase of the project to create rescue centers in the Arctic in November of this year, RIA Novosti news agency quoted Minister Vladimir Puchkov as saying during a conference call.

"The Emergencies Ministry, jointly with federal executive bodies, is continuing with their efforts to pursue government policy in the Arctic, implement the Arctic development strategy and address national security issues," Mr. Puchkov said. "A special task group is being formed at the ministry to oversee all Arctic development plans and programs. We must complete the first phase of the program by November 30, 2015." At present, three comprehensive accident rescue centers are operating in the Arctic (in Naryan-Mar, Arkhangelsk and Dudinka). The fourth center is on target to open in Murmansk in June. The Arctic rescue operation also includes four regional search-and-rescue units and two seaborne rescue coordination centers.

Mr. Puchkov suggested speeding up work to create an Arctic rescue center in Nadym.

"I would like to ask you to clarify all plans and programs to create a Nadym-based complex rescue center in the Arctic," he said. "The first phase is due to be completed in 2015. Please, prepare the appropriate applications and I'll ask the ministry's staff to look further into these issues."