Residents of Nerkin and Verin Shorja Temporarily Relocate from Their Villages

Significant snowfall has caused residents to leave their homes in Nerkin Shorja due to the proximity of Turkish forces. Aram Minasian, the administrative head of Nerkin Shorja in the Vardenis community of Gegharkunik, reported this to 24News, in response to the Tatoian Foundation's announcement that residents have abandoned Nerkin and Verin Shorja villages.

“But they will return again in March; they are cautious about snow obstructing the roads. They have relocated to Vardenis, Akunk, and various other places, but they will come back. Mainly, soldiers have remained in the village, as it is under observation from the enemy's side. I am here in the village,” Minasian stated.

According to the community leader, there have been no shootings in the area recently, and the environment is calm. “Residents moved out in December. The snow can be quite substantial here, presenting challenges. Water is scarce, as the hydroelectric plant is not operational,” he noted.

“The residents and their houses are intact; there have been no incidents during shelling, and no one has been harmed. Some individuals also have homes in Vardenis. They will return in March, depending on the weather. The population will be present on-site,” the leader of Nerkin Shorja remarked.

Artyom Yranosyan, the administrative head of Verin Shorja, also stated that the relocation of residents was due to enemy incursions. “The residents have temporarily evacuated the village; they are away during shooting incidents. The majority have relocated to the city of Vardenis and its surrounding villages. Those who have relatives or friends are living temporarily in their homes,” he explained. The community leader emphasized that he remains in the village.

It is noteworthy that the Center for Law and Justice, Tatoian Foundation, reported that as of September 13-14, 2022, due to an armed attack by the Azerbaijani armed forces against Armenia, civilian life has ceased in the villages of Nerkin and Verin Shorja, with the locations coming entirely under Azerbaijani observation control, leading to serious water accessibility issues or a total lack of water.