Road Conditions in Armenia: Amberd and Gyumri-Ashotsk Routes Closed
Yerevan, February 21 – The Rescue Service of Armenia has issued an update on the country’s road network, stating that most major roads are generally passable. However, several key routes, particularly in mountainous regions and the Shirak province, are experiencing closures or difficult conditions for certain types of vehicles. Drivers are strongly advised to use winter tires exclusively.
Specific Road Closures and Difficulties
According to the official report, the following road sections are currently affected:
- Aragatsotn Province: The roads leading from the “Amberd” high-mountain meteorological station to the Amberd fortress and Lake Kari are completely closed to all traffic.
- Shirak Province (Gyumri-Ashotsk Highway): The Gyumri-Ashotsk highway and the Noravan-“Zanger” road section are closed to vehicles with trailers.
- Vardenyats Pass: This mountain pass is closed to vehicles with trailers and is difficult to pass for other types of vehicles.
- Berd-Chambarak Highway: This road is difficult to pass for vehicles with trailers.
These closures and restrictions are primarily due to prevailing winter weather conditions, which can lead to ice and heavy snowfall in higher elevations.
Lars Highway Update
Information received from the Department of Emergency Situations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia and the Crisis Management Center of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of North Ossetia (Russia) confirms that the Stepanstminda-Lars highway, a critical route connecting Armenia and Russia, is closed to all types of vehicles.
Safety Recommendations for Drivers
The Rescue Service reiterates its call for all drivers to exercise extreme caution and to equip their vehicles with winter tires. This measure is crucial for ensuring safety and preventing accidents on potentially slippery and snow-covered roads.
Other News & Information
In other news, the Armenian banking system’s “mystery” and proposed solutions are being discussed, focusing on existing problems and their resolution. Additionally, Archbishop T. Tatev Sargsyan has passed away. A church service will be held on February 23 at 5:00 PM at St. Gayane Monastery, followed by the final anointing and funeral ceremony on February 24 at 11:00 AM during the Holy Liturgy. Narek Karapetyan is also scheduled to meet with youth on February 25 at 7:30 PM at Tashir Arena as part of the “Strong Armenia” initiative.
The “VERELQ” Information-Analytical Center, based in Yerevan, continues to study and cover important events in Armenia’s socio-political and economic spheres, as well as the role and influence of the Armenian diaspora worldwide. The center’s work is carried out by a team of professional journalists and experts committed to strengthening Armenian statehood and its rise.
Source: https://verelq.am/hy/armenia/show/106907