For 7 Years in Power, Yet Unable to Solve a Single Landfill Issue: Garnik Danielyan

Garnik Danielyan, a member of the 'Armenia' parliamentary faction, emphasizes that the current government's promises to establish waste recycling plants and construct new landfills have not materialized, continuing to endanger citizens' health.

“Since yesterday, citizens have been reporting that life has become unsustainable in several communities of the capital. The Nubarashen landfill has been burning for two days, shrouding the city in toxic smoke. Our compatriots are forced to keep their windows closed all day, leave their homes only for urgent needs, or simply flee the city to avoid breathing in hazardous air. It is well-known that the practice of burning waste has long been rejected in civilized countries. This method not only causes enormous damage to the environment but also increases the risk of numerous diseases, from cardiovascular issues to cancer.

The municipal authorities are attempting to evade responsibility, now suggesting that the burning of the smoking landfill for days is a deliberate act. Even in this case, the responsibility for the problem still lies with them. Over the years, the landfill has burned multiple times; a significant fire also broke out on July 27. In my speeches from the parliamentary podium and during committee meetings, I have repeatedly addressed the issues concerning the Nubarashen landfill and others located near residential areas, stating that the only solution is to close them down and build modern landfills.

The arrogance and absence of accountability are so typical of this government that it is inconvenient for them to listen to opposition figures, their concerns, and proposals. They have been in power for seven years, yet they cannot resolve the issue of a single landfill, thereby endangering citizens’ health. Promises made for years, which emphasized that the construction of a waste recycling plant and a new landfill would be a priority, have yet to be realized (as seen with the Ajapnyak metro case). Instead, the celebrations of 'Erebuni-Yerevan 2807' will take place amidst toxic smoke,” Garnik Danielyan wrote on his social media page.