Isn't Water Thief a Thief?

[Karabekian Emil]

Panorama.am

20:38 01/06/06

ISN'T WATER THIEF A THIEF?

`The situation with the Irrigation systems is tense,' Water State
Committee Chairman Andranik Andreasyan told a briefing today. The
situation is caused by sharp rise in temperature and respective demand
for water. The committee head promises to settle the situation in one
week.

Every year Sevan comes to help in such situations. The government has
issued a decision to water Ararat valley from the lake. According to
government decision, 120 mln cubic meter water will be supplied, but
Andreasyan says it reaches up to 140 -145 cubic meters every year.

Irrigation is an actual problem both in the regions and
Yerevan. Though the municipality states that reconstruction is held in
the irrigation system, the system fails to supply water throughout
Yerevan. `Drinking water is used for irrigation purposes.' committee
head says. In case of fraud in water use, the violators are fined
only. They are not eligible for criminal responsibility. Andreasyan
says, 50 percent loss of drinking water is registered in every
building. /Panorama.am/