Vardan Ghukasyan Addresses Gyumri Flooding: Huge Sums of Money Spent, Drainage Systems Ineffective

On July 13, a torrential rainstorm accompanied by hail created an emergency situation in Gyumri, flooding several neighborhoods and streets. Rescue workers utilized rubber boats, deploying 13 fire trucks to aid in the response. Many homes and basements also filled with water due to the relentless rain and hail.

Vardan Ghukasyan, former mayor of Gyumri and a member of the National Assembly from the Prosperous Armenia Party, spoke with ArmDaily.am about the unprecedented rainfall. He remarked that at 60 years old, he had never seen anything like it before.

“Huge sums of money were spent, they consumed it, which is why the drainage systems are not working well, not only in that area, but in general,” he stated. When asked whether he would raise this issue in parliament, the deputy responded that the entire country is discussing it. “All the television channels are talking about this; what should I say? Everyone has seen it for themselves. If I raise the issue, what will they not see? We will live and see,” he added.

Ghukasyan found it difficult to estimate how many families were affected but noted that many had suffered in the bus station neighborhood, stating, “Whenever there is a flood, people’s homes fill with water. Many vehicles have also been damaged. Call the city hall; it is their obligation to respond to your questions.”