Residents of Norakert Block Railway

MP Taguhi Tovmasyan from the 'My Step' faction in the National Assembly posted on her Facebook page today: 'This morning, I received reports that since 10:20 AM, residents of the Norakert community in the Gegharkunik province have blocked the local railway, which is used by the Sotk gold mine, demanding the division of state fund lands among the villagers so that everyone has land, leading to equality.'

Following the reports and considering the critical importance of the railway, we immediately contacted the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia to inform them about the issue. We also reached out to the leader of the Norakert community, Gerasim Sargsyan, who was already aware of the problem and promptly arrived on-site to talk with the villagers and explore solutions.

It should be noted that this issue is not new. I discussed the problem with the villagers during a community meeting on September 7 of this year, and I believe there is a need for comprehensive discussions. This is also why the Armenian government has yet to make a decision on this matter.

Therefore, I urge the villagers to open this vital railway and allow Geopromining Gold Company to continue its work; the government is already aware of the situation, and the action has achieved its goal. The deputy governor will be present in the community. We will provide further updates on the outcomes.

By the way, many of the organizers and participants of the railway blockade work at the Sotk gold mine.'