Double blockade: Four villages in Nagorno Karabakh face humanitarian disaster

Artsakh

STEPANAKERT, APRIL 26, ARTSAKHPRESS. The villages of Lisagor, Yeghtsahogh, Mets Shen and Hin Shen in the Shushi region of Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) are facing a humanitarian disaster as a result of the double blockade caused by Azerbaijan installing a checkpoint in the Lachin Corridor.

Shushi administrative region head Grisha Hovhannisyan told ARMENPRESS that essential supplies to the residents of these communities has been cut off.

The four villages were isolated from the rest of Nagorno Karabakh as a result of the blockade that began on 12 December 2022. But the locals had the opportunity of maintaining humanitarian connection with Armenia until April 23. “Now, as a result of Azerbaijan illegally installing a checkpoint near the bridge close to the border with Armenia, these villages are in a double blockade,” Hovhannisyan said.

Despite the situation, schools, administrative and public institutions are functioning in the villages.

“If this double blockade is to go on for a few days it will lead to a humanitarian disaster because of the lack of food, medication and other essential supplies,” Hovhannisyan warned.

He highlighted the healthcare problem, noting that the locals don’t have access to health services since 12 December. The residents were seeking medical treatment in Goris, but now this opportunity is no longer available since the checkpoint was installed. Hovhannisyan said there are sick people among the local residents who could require immediate hospitalization.

Authorities are working with Russian peacekeepers to find a solution to the issue of ensuring essential supplies.

Van Novikov

ARTSAKHPRESS
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