Graves Near Homes Have Eroded Due to Rainfall, Masses Are Emerging: Torosyan on Crematoria

Recently, the news that private companies in Armenia will open two crematories in 2020 sparked new discussions among the public. Some criticized the idea of cremating bodies as anti-Christian, while many expressed concern over the ever-growing cemeteries.

Among those expressing their opinions was the Minister of Health of Armenia, Arsen Torosyan, who emphasized the importance of constructing crematories in the country on his Facebook page, noting that the expanding cemeteries pose a significant danger to the surrounding residents.

In response to an inquiry from Armtimes.com, the minister elaborated that the concerns mainly relate to infectious diseases. “We have had cases where graves constructed close to houses have eroded due to various rainfalls, causing entire masses to emerge,” noted Torosyan, adding that it is essential to maintain sanitary norms as much as possible. There are cemeteries located very close to houses, which is already dangerous,” he stated.

According to Torosyan, the construction of crematories is important not only for adhering to sanitary and hygiene standards but also for optimizing lands of public significance, so that they can be used as effectively as possible. Regarding the issue, the ministry receives numerous applications from communities, with concerned citizens asking how to address the presence of graves near homes, perhaps suggesting that the deceased could be buried elsewhere, not so close to residences, to pose no danger.

“The time has come for Armenia to have crematories, and there is nothing inhumane or anti-religious about it,” the minister noted, adding that even in the most religious country in Europe, Poland, such facilities exist, and they see no issues with having crematories, similar to Russia and Ukraine.