We all realize that certain problems may emerge when the government regulates the sector that hasn’t been regulated for many years. The procedure is being implemented these past two days, and citizens are protesting because they have encountered certain problems. This is what Governor of Gegharkunik Province of Armenia Gnel Sanosyan told reporters as he touched upon the fact that fishermen have closed off the Sevan-Yerevan highway of Armenia on both sides.

“The fishermen and I agreed that they will state all of their questions over the weekend and submit a document to the Ministry of Environment, after which the relevant officials will try to answer their questions. There are questions that can be answered now, and there are other questions that need to be regulated by law. I believe the Ministry of Environment will give exhaustive answers to all questions,” Sanosyan emphasized.

The last time fishing for whitefish in Lake Sevan was allowed was in 2004. By the government’s decision dated June 18, 2020, experimental fishing for whitefish in Lake Sevan is permitted, but only if the fish weighs no less than 500 grams.

Sanosyan added that the regional governor’s office has held discussions on the new decision with fishermen a few times.

The fishermen said they had been fined today, their fishnets were seized, and this is why they had closed off the highway.