Mountain Air Rescue Station (M.A.R.S.)

The idea of creating a Mountain International Search and Rescue Center at the foot of the Verila mountain is ambitious and innovative, combining existing and newly introduced technologies, facilities, and approaches to rescue missions and volunteer work. The construction of a Multi-Story Smart Home for the Rescuer of the Future in the heart of Sofia, a Multi-Story Smart Hub near Samokov, as well as the creation of a network of SAR Tech MotoHubs and other specialized infrastructures, can become a true revolution in the approach to emergency aid, rescue operations, and the development of volunteerism. In the following lines, I will analyze the main components of this project and how they can be integrated and developed in Bulgaria.

1. Infrastructure for Rescue Missions

The project envisions the construction of various rescue stations and hubs, including SAR Tech MotoHub and RescueHub RoofTop. These will be located in the heart of Sofia but will extend coverage to important mountain regions such as Vitosha, Rila, and Plana. The existence of specialized stations for off-road motorcycles, ATVs, and 4×4 vehicles for rescue operations is key because:

• Coverage of Hard-to-Reach Areas: Bulgaria has many hard-to-reach mountainous areas that require specialized equipment for rescue missions. The inclusion of mobile hubs and renovated technical bases such as SAR Tech MotoHub will ensure quick preparation of volunteers for missions in these areas.

• Innovative Transport Solutions: The use of electric bikes and motorcycles for rescue operations will support the sustainable development of the system. Air and ground solutions can be combined for faster and more efficient missions.

• Training and Preparation Infrastructure: The site will offer specialized garages, test tracks, and training for rescuers—key components in volunteer preparation. The existence of a training hub with innovations in transport and rescue technologies will become a center for knowledge transfer and training for new generations of rescuers.

2. Integration of New Technologies and Innovations

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): A key element in this project is the integration of AI into rescue missions. This includes the use of sensors, autonomous systems, and drones for real-time surveillance, coordination, and navigation. The development of electronic helipads for aerial rescue missions—especially with eco-helicopters—will reduce carbon emissions and align with the project’s sustainability goals.

• Rescue Z-Line: This innovation uses intelligent nodes and rapid descent systems to create a new method for transporting victims and rescuers quickly. It will be extremely useful for emergencies in inaccessible and high-altitude areas.

• Integration of Eco-Technologies: In addition to electric vehicles and helicopters, the future #BuxtonHeights ecosystem will include sustainable energy solutions such as solar panels, wind turbines, and intelligent energy management systems, ensuring the autonomy and sustainability of the entire structure.

3. Volunteer Model

The volunteer model for rescue missions is a key element of the concept. Unlike traditional professional rescue teams, the project offers a volunteer-based approach, which can be extremely valuable in the face of the ever-increasing need for rapid emergency response, especially in rural and mountainous areas. Volunteers will have opportunities for training and participation in real missions.

• Volunteer Mobilization: The training and mobilization of volunteers will be crucial to the project’s success. Training and innovation centers, along with online learning platforms, can attract new and motivated volunteers to be trained in first aid, rescue techniques, and the use of new technologies.

• Work Flexibility and Technology: The integration of mobile apps and coordination platforms connected to sensors and GPS technologies will improve interaction between volunteers and emergency management centers.

4. Geographically Distributed Rescue Networks and Infrastructure

• Helipads: Building helipads and e-helipads in strategic locations will ensure rapid transport of rescue teams and victims. The landing sites will be located in various regions such as Vitosha, Rila, and Plana, as well as near towns and villages like Klisura and Grubnitsa, providing easy access for emergency missions.

• Strong Communication and Coordination: Establishing a network of communication points and facilities in the region will create a system capable of responding quickly and effectively to any emergency, using both ground and aerial rescue units.

5. Social and Economic Impact

The project will have a positive impact on local communities through:

• Job creation in the field of rescue operations and volunteer work.

• Training and qualification of new rescuers and innovators.

• Enhancing social sustainability through active volunteer involvement and exchange of knowledge and resources across regions of Bulgaria.

The initiative to create an International Search and Rescue Center, with integrated technologies, volunteer networks, and innovations in rescue missions, represents a strong foundation for the future of emergency operations in the country. Combining sustainable transport solutions, smart technologies, and volunteer models can position Bulgaria as a leader in rescue mission innovation.

“In Bulgaria, we can create the most efficient and progressive innovative model of an international volunteer Emergency Search and Rescue Service through the establishment of an Innovation ThinkCenter — an innovation hub that will unite the latest technologies for rescue operations and volunteer initiatives. This center will provide rescuers and volunteers with access to cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence, drone technologies, advanced rescue systems, and eco-friendly transport, thereby ensuring rapid, effective, and sustainable emergency response. Through the integration of future technologies and strategic collaboration between international organizations, the Innovation ThinkCenter will put Bulgaria on the global rescue missions map, laying the foundation for the future of rescue operations and volunteer innovation.”

– Ivan Kristoff

Our project is developing a Mobile Mission Control Computing System for managing missions with stationary and mobile units for cross-border disaster risk prevention and climate adaptation. It equips rescue vehicles, drones, and eco-transport to enhance safety, surveillance, and training, supported by The International Vertical Access Network for aerial operations and expertise.