Starting September 1, We Will Transport Citizens for Free, Says Marutyan Ally

Our faction is certainly against discussing or voting on this initiative at all. This was stated today, on March 12, in an interview with NEWS.am by Grigori Yeritsyan, a member of the City Council from the "National Progress" faction, regarding the proposal to increase transportation costs in Yerevan.

"Both the previous version and this one are flawed and lack any factual basis. Nineteen percent of Yerevan's population is impoverished, and sixty-nine percent earn below-average salaries. 8,800 drams constitute 11 percent of the minimum wage. This means that people who previously fought for social justice and rights are now gallivanting around in cars powered by our taxes and fuel while raising transportation costs. Transportation should not increase by even one dram," he said.

Yeritsyan expressed confidence that this project would be adopted. "I am certain that this government also has a pocket opposition—'Public Voice. The Voices'—and will pass this decision," he added.

When asked about what actions they would take, the opposition council member said, "Starting September 1, this decision will come into effect, so we will continue, as before, to transport citizens for free and urge them not to pay the increased fare. We will call on people to take to the streets to prevent this decision from becoming a reality."

It is noteworthy that the issue of transportation cost increases is set to be discussed at the Yerevan City Council's meeting today, March 12. The revised project of a unified ticketing system includes: a '90-minute' ticket for 280-300 drams allowing for 3 trips (one use in each mode of transport), a one-day fare for 880-900 drams for up to 8 trips (one use in each mode of transport), a seven-day fare for 4,800-5,000 drams for up to 30 trips (one use in each mode of transport), and a thirty-day fare for 8,800-9,000 drams with unlimited travel opportunities. There are also options for 90 days for 23,600-24,000 drams and 365 days for 88,000-90,000 drams, both with unlimited travel opportunities. A "Multiple Use" ticket will cost 2,100-2,200 drams for 10 trips within one month. Upon purchasing any package, citizens will have access to all means of public transport. Discounts will be applied for students, social groups, or special categories of the population. The decision will come into effect on September 1.