Relief fund for natural disaster victims set up

The recent powerful hailstorm in Armavir province affected 12,000 families and devastated areas of 11,000 ha in 46 communities of the province. Damage from the hailstorm is assessed at 25 billion AMD. A relief fund for natural disaster victims has been set up, with parliamentary deputy Alexan Petrosian being appointed the fund’s director.

During a meeting with reporters, A. Petrosian called upon state bodies, private sector, big taxpayers, and diplomatic missions to help hailstorm-hit farmers.

In his words, weeks after the unprecedented hail hit Armavir province on May 12, the real losses have become evident. Orchards will bear fruit in one or two years and vineyards will bear grapes only in three years. Cultivation of truck crops and gourds can still be organized, but little help has been given to farmers so far, the deputy said.

Alexan Petrosian assured reporters that people can call a hotline to check how the fund’ money has been spent.

He added that Armenian police have transferred 11 million AMD to the fund’s account.