Volunteers are urgently needed in the disaster-stricken areas of Lori and Tavush provinces in Armenia. This was announced by the Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, Gnel Sanosyan, as reported by Radio Liberty.
"Since yesterday, we have felt the need for volunteer support. On the first day, it was impossible to approach and work, so we did not request volunteers to join the efforts. However, when the river level dropped yesterday, it became possible," said the minister.
The floods have caused significant damage in the region, affecting roads, including the interstate highway to Georgia, destroying bridges, and isolating settlements.
According to Sanosyan, about 50 volunteers were already mobilized yesterday, and today the plan is to increase their number to 200.
"We have requested up to 200 volunteers. We have many areas filled with mud and water: parts of buildings and shops that require manual labor. Now we need manpower. So we already need volunteers," he added.
The minister also mentioned that they are working with local volunteer forces, supported by the Red Cross and the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, which has a list of volunteers. The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports has also been asked to reach out to students.
"I think we will need 200-300 volunteers daily for the next few days," Sanosyan stated.
The coordination of volunteer efforts is being managed by a representative of the Lori provincial administration and the deputy head of the Alaverdi community. There is no need for equipment, but special clothing is required.
"If there are people who want to help, please contact them so that we can work in a coordinated manner," the minister urged.
Previously, BMG reported that the Armenian government declared several settlements in Lori and Tavush provinces disaster zones following severe floods caused by heavy rains on May 25-26, 2024.
As a result of the disaster, 4 people died, 18 bridges were destroyed, and 7 settlements were cut off from the rest of the region. To address the urgent needs of the local population, 300 million drams (approximately $800,000) have already been allocated.
