Yerevan Transformed into ‘Ice Rink’ Following Snowfall, City Council Member Criticizes Inaction
Yerevan, Armenia – January 20, 2026 – The streets of Yerevan have reportedly become an ‘ice rink’ after a recent snowfall, leading to significant public complaints and criticism from local officials. Gevorg Stepanyan, a member of the ‘Mother Armenia’ faction of the Yerevan City Council, took to Facebook yesterday to highlight the hazardous conditions and the apparent lack of snow removal efforts by the city authorities.
In a video accompanied by a written post, Stepanyan described Yerevan as an ‘ice rink,’ stating, ‘The consequences of another ‘unforeseen’ snowfall: no cleaning work has been carried out.’ His remarks underscore a growing frustration among residents regarding the city’s response to winter weather conditions.
Public Questions Accountability Amidst Slippery Conditions
Stepanyan’s post also raised critical questions about accountability, asking, ‘Whom should citizens fine for this?’ He further criticized the city’s governance, alluding to a 9% managed Yerevan and a 100% squandered Yerevan budget. This suggests a perception among some public figures that the city’s financial resources are not being effectively utilized for essential services like urban maintenance during adverse weather.
The current situation has left many residents navigating dangerous icy pavements and roads, raising concerns about public safety and accessibility. The lack of immediate action to clear snow and ice has prompted calls for greater transparency and efficiency in municipal services.
Weather Forecast Predicts More Snow and Dropping Temperatures
Adding to the current challenges, the weather forecast for Yerevan indicates more snowfall and a decrease in temperature. This projection suggests that the icy conditions are likely to persist or worsen, potentially exacerbating the difficulties faced by commuters and pedestrians. The temperature in Yerevan is currently -2°C, with a predicted drop to -9°C, and -5°C for tomorrow.
The ongoing issues with snow removal and icy conditions are not isolated incidents. Reports from other regions of Armenia also indicate similar problems, with warnings of snowstorms, blizzards, and black ice on various roads across the Republic of Armenia.
Calls for Improved Urban Management and Preparedness
The incident has reignited discussions about the city’s preparedness for winter weather and the effectiveness of its urban management strategies. Critics argue that such recurring issues point to systemic problems in planning and execution, especially given that snowfall in winter months is a predictable occurrence in the region.
Residents and opposition figures are urging the city administration to implement more robust and proactive measures to ensure public safety and maintain essential infrastructure during winter. This includes better resource allocation for snow removal equipment and personnel, as well as improved communication channels to inform the public about road conditions and city responses.
The ‘Mother Armenia’ faction, through Gevorg Stepanyan’s statements, continues to advocate for greater accountability and more responsive governance in addressing the immediate needs of Yerevan’s citizens.
