The Emergencies Ministry is upgrading the system of responding to fires and emergencies, with particular attention to strengthening its units in the Arctic region, Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov said during the Government Hour at the State Duma, according to Interfax.

"Special attention is given to the Russian Arctic zone, which is almost fully provided with fire and rescue units of the Emergencies Ministry. We deliberately raise the readiness of forces — over 18,000 people — operating in the Arctic. We develop modern technologies, unmanned aircraft and robotics, and implement new types of gear and equipment. This is very serious work that we plan to carry out," Mr Puchkov said.

According to him, the work on ensuring the protection and safety of the Arctic zone's inhabitants and infrastructure will be completed in the near future.

"We have built over 95 new integrated rescue centers in the Arctic, and another five centers will be completed soon to ensure the protection of residents and the security of all infrastructure facilities," he said.