Gaha Energy decided to immediately suspend all types of construction work in the Ohanavan rural community in Aragatsotn marz, according to a statement issued by the company.
"Considering the not yet dissipated concerns of a group of residents of the villages of Karbi and Ohanavan regarding the necessary reconstruction of the subsidized irrigation canal and as a result of public hearings regarding the subsequent implementation of the renewable energy development program, we inform you that the company has adopted a decision to immediately suspend all types of construction work in the Ohanavan community.
"Our work has become an occasion for uncalled-for and unjustified speculations. We declare that the priority for us in this issue is the interest of the villager, ensuring unhindered irrigation and development of the communities where GAHA Energy will carry out activities.
"Time will tell that it's not possible to deceive the villager who pours his sweat on the earth. It is this villager who will be the main beneficiary and defender of this program. We are confident in the integrity of the goals of this program," reads the company statement.
Recall, residents of 7 rural communities in Aragatsotn marz have repeatedly protested against construction of a hydroelectric power station in Ohanavan, several times blocking the Yerevan-Aparan road. The villagers claim that the hydroelectric power plant will consume so much water from the Aparan reservoir that their lands will run dry.