YEREVAN, April 29, 2026 – Drivers in Yerevan are once again threatening to launch mass protests over the deplorable state of roads, particularly on Arin Berd Street. According to Gagik Shamshyan, a prominent journalist, the road conditions remain unsatisfactory despite previous protests and official assurances.
Unfulfilled Promises and Unrepaired Roads
Earlier, motorists had organized protests, paralyzing traffic, after which the head of the Erebuni administrative district reportedly informed them that the Mayor of Yerevan had promised that road construction workers would begin major repair works within days. Furthermore, the head of the Prime Minister’s staff had announced that the government had allocated 1 billion drams for the thorough renovation of the said road. However, to this day, the road has not been improved.
Shamshyan has been receiving numerous alerts from hundreds of drivers, who indicate their intention to resume mass protests. The prolonged delay in repairs, despite allocated funds and official commitments, has fueled widespread frustration among the driving community.
The Impact on Residents and Commuters
The continuous deterioration of Arin Berd Street has significantly impacted daily commutes and the overall quality of life for residents in the area. Drivers report increased wear and tear on their vehicles, longer travel times, and a heightened risk of accidents due to potholes and uneven surfaces.
Local businesses in the vicinity of Arin Berd Street have also expressed concerns about the negative economic impact of the poor road conditions, citing reduced customer traffic and difficulties in logistics and deliveries.
Previous Protests and Official Responses
The current threat of renewed protests is not an isolated incident. Drivers had previously staged demonstrations, highlighting the urgent need for road repairs. Following these protests, officials made public statements and pledges to address the issue, leading to a temporary cessation of the demonstrations.
The allocation of 1 billion drams by the government for the renovation of Arin Berd Street was seen as a significant step towards resolving the problem. However, the lack of visible progress on the ground has eroded public trust and led to accusations of inefficiency and broken promises.
Calls for Accountability and Immediate Action
Drivers and concerned citizens are now demanding accountability from the relevant authorities. They are calling for immediate action to commence the promised repair works and to ensure that the allocated funds are utilized effectively and transparently. The sentiment among the protesting drivers is that mere promises are no longer sufficient, and tangible results are expected.
The situation underscores a broader issue of infrastructure maintenance and public service delivery in Yerevan, where citizens often face challenges related to urban development and public works. The outcome of the current standoff between the drivers and the authorities will likely set a precedent for how such issues are addressed in the future.
Potential for Further Disruptions
If the threatened mass protests materialize, they could lead to significant traffic disruptions and inconvenience for residents across Yerevan. The drivers’ determination to take further action highlights the severity of their grievances and their resolve to ensure that their demands are met.
The authorities are now under increased pressure to respond decisively and transparently to the drivers’ concerns to prevent further escalation of the situation and to restore public confidence in their ability to manage urban infrastructure effectively.
