Despite the absence of open flames, smoldering fire pockets at the Nubarashen landfill continue to emit heavy smoke, significantly increasing air pollution in Yerevan.
Civic activist Eduard Hayrumyan posted a photo on Facebook with the caption: “Above Masis are clouds, but the ‘fog’ below is smoke from the burning Nubarashen landfill.”
He noted that it was obvious from early footage that such a fire couldn’t be extinguished in a day.
“In any normal country, the mayor would have apologized to the public and promised to do everything possible to extinguish the fire swiftly. The health minister would have taken over the briefing, urging residents to keep windows shut, avoid outdoor activity, and more,” he wrote.
“But instead, we’re told the fire is out, the NSS is chasing ‘the former ones,’ and balloons are released into the air as if residents won’t notice the smoke. It feels like these speeches are meant for Armenians in France or Rostov—not those actually breathing this air in Yerevan,” Hayrumyan added.
According to Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan, air quality data from sensors showed a pollution index of 105, classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups.
He emphasized that while the general population won’t be affected by short-term exposure, individuals with respiratory issues should limit time outdoors and avoid physical activity.
Municipal officials also reported that over two days, 248 truckloads of soil were delivered to the landfill to cover and suppress smoke-emitting hotspots.
