Increase in Incidents of Tree Damage and Theft in Yerevan: Armen Begoyan

Incidents of damaging and stealing trees in Yerevan have become concerning. During a press conference at the Armenpress press hall, Armen Begoyan, the director of Yerevan Municipality's "Greening and Environmental Protection" SNCO, noted that cases of both tree damage and theft have increased.

"These new trees that we are planting are large and cannot be stolen, but cases of damage are not uncommon. Incidents of damaging high-value shrub species are particularly frequent. For example, I receive daily reports about the theft of evergreen shrubs called ilex at the train station square. There are many thefts of Cossack junipers. I am no longer surprised by the theft of flowers," said Armen Begoyan, adding that they are closely cooperating with law enforcement agencies.

The director of the "Greening and Environmental Protection" SNCO assures that no incident is an exception; all cases are reported to the police, and criminal cases have been initiated. In this context, the organization emphasizes the importance of strengthening monitoring mechanisms and awareness-raising efforts. Extensive educational programs are being implemented in schools, engaging students in practical activities.

"I urge our citizens to be attentive, not to damage green spaces. It is the workers of our grandparents' age who care for the trees and flower-rich areas. Appreciate their work. Do not hesitate to use the designated walkways and not walk over the lawns. All this work is done for all of us," stated Armen Begoyan.