What Responsibility Will the Polluter of the Voghji River Face? Minister Provides Details

SHANTNEWS.am inquired today with the Minister of Environment of the Republic of Armenia, Erik Grigoryan, about the findings of the investigation into the pollution of the Voghji River. It is recalled that on October 17, the governor of Syunik informed the government that the river had been polluted. It turned out that a tailings pipe from a plant near the village of Nerk'in Giratagh in Syunik Province had been damaged, resulting in discharges contaminating the Voghji River.

On the evening of October 27, residents of Kapan again noticed that the river was polluted. “In Armenia, the Environmental and Mining Inspection Body carries out administrative measures concerning environmental violations. The inspection body has conducted sampling, performed investigations, and collected analyses; I believe they have no restrictions to prevent any journalist from requesting information,” said Grigoryan.

In response to journalists' observations that they have made requests but have not received information, and regarding what the ministry's answer is, the Minister of Environment commented: “Certain metals—aluminum, iron, and a few others that I saw—have concentrations exceeding permissible limits. There are several studies regarding organic content; it can't be completed in one day, meaning it takes 3-4 working days, so I assume they haven’t finished yet,” the minister added, noting that he presumes criminal responsibility will be assigned.