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Yerevan City Council will discuss a motion to designate Hrazdan Gorge a specially protected natural area of local significance under the “protected landscape” category at its October 13 session. A city official has described the move as an important decision ahead of COP17.
“This draft [motion] has already been discussed and approved at a committee meeting,” Sirarpi Haykazyan, Head of the Environmental Protection Department of Yerevan City Hall, said at a City Hall executive meeting on Monday.
“Granting Hrazdan Gorge the status of a specially protected natural area of local significance has been one of the environmental commitments of the city authorities. The adoption of this draft will be a very important decision ahead of COP17. All activities will be aimed at developing environmentally friendly opportunities for accessible recreation in the gorge, allowing visitors to connect with nature while minimizing the impact on biodiversity and ecosystem processes,” Sirarpi Haykazyan said.
Regarding cleanup work in the gorge, the Head of the Environmental Protection Department emphasized that many days throughout the year are devoted to carrying out these activities. She added that the work planned for Hrazdan Gorge over the next year includes maintaining its current condition, implementing short-term programs until the management plan is adopted, and defining zoning areas.