Armenians disgruntled by bread price, transport fare hikes
By Sabina Idayatova
The price of bread has increased in the Armenian capital Yerevan and nearby cities in the past days due to an increase of fees on gas and electricity.
The prices have risen by 10-20 drams on average, in particular, the price of bread has risen by 10 drams (1 USD = 414AMD).
Although the price hike is being observed not in all stores, an overall price hike is expected soon, the workers of a number of grocery stores told a local newspaper.
For instance, the prices of soft drinks and beer have increased by 30 drams.
Meanwhile, the Armenian statistics committee summarizing the first half of the year cited decline in living standards in the country.
Inflation indicators recorded in the first six months of this year were higher than the growth rate of average wages in Armenia.
"In particular, inflation made up 4.1 percent over the six months, while the average monthly salary for the same period increased only by 2.1 percent. In other words, prices rose faster than the wages, which means that the standard of living in the country has gone down, and people have become poorer," the newspaper said.
However, as the official rate of inflation for the first half of the year does not include the increase in fees for gas and electricity, which were raised from July 7.
Since July 20 Yerevan residents pay 150 drams fare on buses and microbuses instead of the previous 100 drams according to the mayor's office decision.
The trolley fare was raised to 100 drams from 50 drams. The subway fare remained unchanged at 100 drams.
More than 10,000 signatures have been collected to oppose the increase in transport fares in Yerevan, which will be delivered to the mayor's office.
A group of activists at bus stops are distributing leaflets calling on people not to pay 150 drams.
"Dear citizens, by paying 100 drams for public transport fare, you contribute to the fight against the price increase.
Do not let the oligarchs, the owners of transport lines, to get rich at your expense and your family's expense. Drivers, our boycott is not directed against you," say the leaflets.
Some citizens continue protesting by paying 100 drams. Moreover, some car owners have joined the protest by transporting citizens free of charge.
The activists call on people to take part at Mashtots Park rallies organized every evening to mull over the next steps to be taken.