The Armenian government has declared a disaster zone in nine communities of the Tavush and Lori regions following devastating floods caused by heavy rains on May 25-26, 2024. These communities encompass 39 settlements with approximately 113,000 residents affected by the catastrophe.
Armenia's Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Gnel Sanosyan presented the progress of the recovery efforts at a National Assembly session. Around 1,419 rescue workers from the Ministry of Internal Affairs' rescue service were deployed in the disaster response operations.
According to the minister, two major categories of road damage were identified. About 11 sections of the M4 interstate road sustained various levels of damage, while the M6 road, which connects Armenia to Georgia, was damaged in 43 sections. Despite this, both roads are now passable thanks to extensive restoration work.
In the disaster zone, 24 bridges were reported damaged, with 16 rendered unusable. Some of these are small community bridges, while others, consisting of 6-7 spans, are major structures needing complete replacement. Notable large bridges requiring replacement include the Hobardji bridge, the bridge near Sanahin station, and the bridges in Akhtala, Karkop, Ayrum, and Hashtarak.
The railway from Ayrum station to Sanahin station also suffered severe damage. This 27-kilometer section saw serious damage to between 1,800 and 2,000 meters of track, which is currently under active repair.
Adjacent infrastructure to the railway has also sustained damage. Nineteen gas pipelines were damaged, but gas supply has largely been restored. Water supply has also been significantly restored.
The floods resulted in the damage or flooding of 153 vehicles, and 843 buildings and structures in the two regions were either damaged or destroyed.
