The inactive tailing dumps constitute a serious environmental threat, Hakob Sanasaryan, Head of the Green Union of Armenia, told ArmInfo.
The environmentalists have repeatedly pointed out that the recultivation of the inactive tailing dumps is not done properly. Along with the lack of isolation of the bottom of the tailing dump, this contributes to penetration of the heavy metals into the groundwater systems. Moreover, the surface dust of the tailing dumps spreads in the environment.
Sanasaryan pointed at 3 inactive tailing dumps in Agarak, where the toxic dust raises in the air in a windy weather due to the lack of recultivation. He also pointed out the negative effects of the lack of control over the abandoned dumps on the River Vokhchi such as Darazam, Pkhrut and Vorotan.
The expert said that in the area of Darazam tailing dump the local residents grow potatoes and cabbages. Pkhrut and Vorotan are actually half-ruined, but notwithstanding this, one can see cattle grazing there. Thus, the heavy metals penetrate into the human body through the dairy and may cause serious diseases.
Sanasaryan said that like other tailing dumps, the territory of the Dastakert tailing dump is not fenced either. This means that any may enter the dump of the mining wastes without any obstacle.
Another two 30 year old inactive tailing dumps are located at the territory of Alaverdi town. Wind spreads dust full of heavy metals from the surface of these dumps and intoxicates gardens and grazings with dangerous elements. Sanasaryan said that the government has to tighten control over this sphere and take measures for recultivation of the tailing dumps.
To note, according to the data of Armenia's Emergency Ministry, there are 19 active and inactive tailing dump in Armenia with a total area 1400 ha.