Vodno and the Matka canyon - two of the most visited recreation spots for people in Skopje - are finally getting a permanent mountain rescue service. A service that will provide first aid, rescue, evacuation and safe transport of injured persons, through organized on-call shifts.

The service was officially presented on July 12, with a demonstration rescue drill simulating the rescue of an injured person in mountain conditions. It works in partnership with the Red Cross of Skopje, and the budget for this purpose has been doubled compared to last year, allowing for better equipment.

Mayor Orce Gjorgjievski explained the need simply: „When a human life is in danger, every second is precious.“ And he's right - both Vodno and Matka receive thousands of visitors, hikers and tourists, and accidents on the ground - falls, people getting lost, injuries - are not rare.

This is one of those quiet, practical things that rarely make the headlines but genuinely save lives. Until now, in an accident on Vodno or in Matka, help often came improvised and slow. A permanent trained service with on-call shifts is the difference between a life saved and a life lost when minutes count. For once, news from the local authorities that is concrete and useful, not just a promise for the future.