The Pan-Armenian Environmental Front has again revealed violations at the small hydro power plants (HPP) "Khachaghbyur-1" and "Khachaghbyur-2," the Organization says in a statement provided to ArmInfo. Activists who have visited Tavush region lately found out that the fish passes at both the HPPs were dry. In addition, the activists alarm that Megaenergy LLC that is exploiting "Khachaghbyur-2" HPP has again cut off the flow of the River of Paghjur. The activists informed the Nature Protection Ministry of the violations.
"In 1.5 hours, some people approached the HPP and resumed the flow. So, the employees of the Nature Protection Inspectorate would see quite different picture when arriving at the spot," the Pan-Armenian Environmental Front says in the statement.
The activists call on the Ministry of Nature Protection to reckon with the facts and violations revealed by the public when adopting decisions on violations, as well as to raise the fines and other punishment measures against the economic entities that repeatedly violate relevant rules and laws.
The Organization recalls that the companies exploiting "Khachaghbyur-1" and "Getik-4" HPPs were fined in the amount of 100,000 drams each after alarms of activists in August. Violations at "Khachaghbyur-2" were neglected then.
Meanwhile, public in different regions of Armenia is outraged at some small HPP construction projects. To that end, large-scale protest actions are held regularly. Experts say small HPPs in Armenia threaten the ecosystems.