Appeal: Situation has the potential to create a severe public health crisis for both Azerbaijan and Armenia

Armenia's ongoing mining operations in the border region with Azerbaijan may create a serious health crisis for both Azerbaijan and Armenia, said an appeal of civil society organizations operating in the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations (UN) and the international community, Report informs.

"Non-transparent and non-accountable exploitation process in mining industry in Armenia harms people and the environment, given its far-reaching implications and the threat it poses to human health, the environment and true sustainability. Highly toxic chemical waste exposed from industries pollutes almost all transboundary watercourses. This environmental impact affects human health and safety, flora, fauna, soil, air and water structures.

"The concerning prospect of discharging this waste into the Araz river gives rise to worries regarding the impact on the river's wildlife and the extensive farms dependent on Araz water for irrigation. The potential harm to the drinking water supply poses risks to human health and water safety, which could result in the spread of infectious diseases in border villages. This situation has the potential to create a severe public health crisis for both Azerbaijan and Armenia," the document reads.