Reports circulating in the media and on social networks regarding an "epidemic situation" and the hospitalization of 10 children in Balahovit village, Kotayk Province, are false and constitute misinformation.

Claims alleging that the sewerage system in Balahovit is connected to the drinking water network are likewise unfounded.

The Water Committee remains in contact with "Veolia Jur" CJSC and the administrative head of Balahovit.

A brief summary of the situation is as follows:

The misunderstanding originated when a Balahovit resident, complaining about irrigation water issues, stated in a media interview that the sewerage line was connected to the water pipeline system. In reality, the resident was referring to a storm drain. No drinking water pipeline runs through the section in question, where only a sewerage network exists. Misinterpretation of the Armenian term for "water line" ("ջրատար") led to the mistaken impression that the issue pertained to the drinking water system.

Regarding rumors of 10 children suffering from poisoning, this news similarly spread through a chain of misinformation after a resident living near the sewer line reported that their 10-year-old child experienced allergic flare-ups due to odors in that area.

While the sewerage system in the Balahovit area is indeed in suboptimal condition, cleaning operations are conducted regularly. These maintenance activities take place annually, and further cleaning and regulation measures are planned for the near future.

At the same time, access for heavy machinery remains difficult or impossible in certain segments due to unauthorized structures, fences, livestock sheds, and other obstacles built by residents, creating additional operational challenges.

Overall, the situation is under control, and efforts are underway toward a complete resolution of the issue.