Tbilisi continues evacuating residents from the zoo area and the River Vere. More rain will soon start in 40 minutes, according to Avtandil Sutadze, the head of the Service for Provision of Urban Amenities. Hail has been seen on Tbilisi's outskirts. Recovery and rescue operations have been postponed until morning, RIA Novosti reports.
Tbilisi Deputy Mayor Irakli Lekvinadze told Vestnik Kavkaza that the situation was settled, thanks to the non-stop work of the city's government. The damage amounts to tens of millions of laris. About 400 people have lost their homes, they have been accommodated in hotels.
Political analyst Mamuka Areshidze emphasized the efficiency of the government. He said that its approval rating has been rocketing since June 13, because people had not expected such commitment. Areshidze expressed hope that the government will be ready for any new disasters.
Nika Chitadze, the head of the Center for Studies of Security Issues and International Relations, noted that the authorities were trying to prevent repercussions. In his words, the Defense Ministry, National Gurads and the Interior Ministry are engaged in rescue operations. Students and members of NGOs are assisting them.
