Tightening control of fare collection in Yerevan’s public transport led to a significant increase in receipts, but at the same time exacerbated conflicts between passengers and drivers. The municipality promises to punish the violators and calls on the citizens to support the drivers.

According to last week’s data, the number of validations in public transport in Yerevan increased by 15-30 percent. As Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan stated during the procedural session held on April 13, this positive change is the result of the instruction given on April 6, by which the drivers were obliged to personally monitor the fare collection process.

The new rules, however, caused serious tension on the routes. Since payment is made at the front door when boarding, drivers prefer to delay the opening of the rear doors, which causes displeasure of disembarking passengers and turns into fights of tongues. The situation is further complicated due to the refusal of some citizens to pay the new tariff (from 2025: 150 drams instead of the previous 100).

Last week, the tension also led to physical clashes. a serious incident of attack on the driver was registered. Three people have been arrested in connection with the case, and one more person is involved in the case. Tigran Avinyan emphasized that the culprits will be severely punished, adding that such actions are directed not only against an individual, but also against the entire city system.

The mayor thanked the drivers for their restraint and severely criticized those who evade payment, considering their aggressive behavior unacceptable. He called on conscientious citizens to support drivers in this transitional period, assuring that the establishment of discipline in the system will allow importing new vehicles in the future and ensure quality service in the capital.

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