New disaster management infrastructure being built in Latvia with EU support

In Bolderāja, a new disaster management center is being built, while in Ķengarags, a Firefighting Logistics and Repair Base complex is under construction. These are just two of several projects co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

By 2029, a total of 34 disaster management centers are planned. Currently, 15 centers are operational, and at least 11 are being built with ERDF support. The total project cost is €106 million, with 85% covered by the ERDF. Centers are also being constructed in Tukums, Kuldīga, Preiļi, Sigulda, Aizkraukle, Limbaži, Jūrmala (Kauguri), Dobele, Ludza, and Saldus.

The Firefighting Logistics and Repair Base complex on Ķengaraga Street costs €26 million, of which €22 million is provided by the ERDF. It will combine depots, warehouses, and a repair base, replacing outdated facilities in Bolderāja and Lastādija Street that have been in use since 1946.

Deputy Chief of the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) Rūdolfs Āzens notes that the new infrastructure will significantly improve the service's operations, but after all projects are completed, only 46% of VUGD units will be in adequate condition. He emphasizes that work must continue after 2029.

Positive changes are already visible: employee satisfaction with the work environment rose from 49.9% in 2023 to 70.1% in 2025. VUGD's vacancy rate has dropped to approximately 3% – a record low. Āzens attributes this to the ergonomics of new premises, salary increases, and public recognition.