"Axe-like" cuts: Armenian PM deprives Defence Ministry workers of free transport

Employees of Armenia’s Defence Ministry have been left stranded after Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan ordered the cancellation of 12 free buses that transported workers to and from the ministry’s main building in the Nor Nork district of Yerevan.

According to Armenian media, these buses previously served employees living in the outskirts and suburbs of the capital, picking them up in the morning and returning them home in the evening, per Caliber.Az.

The sudden decision has forced dozens, if not hundreds, of workers into a logistical bind.

“The ministry is located far from central transport routes, and getting there is a real challenge now,” complained one employee. “We have to either change buses multiple times or walk long distances. For many, this means extra expenses on taxis we can’t afford.”

The ministry building is situated about 1.5 kilometres from Gai Avenue, the nearest main transport artery. Employees now face longer commutes, with some departments warning that tardiness will not be tolerated. “We’ve been told directly — late arrivals could lead to dismissal,” said another disgruntled worker.

The decision comes as part of a broader austerity initiative spearheaded by Pashinyan. Speaking earlier about his plans to reduce official transportation costs, the prime minister stated, “The reductions will be carried out with ‘axe-like’ methods.”

The move has drawn criticism from employees and observers alike, with some questioning the timing and severity of the cuts. For now, Defence Ministry workers are left to navigate the challenging new reality, unsure of how their concerns will be addressed.

By Tamilla Hasanova