“LIFE” UNDER A BRIDGE

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My two grandchildren do not go to school as they have nothing to wear. My third grandson is liable to military service. Unfortunately he cannot be recruited to the army as nobody knows about our existence, 70-year-old Siranush Melikian told A1+.

Mrs. Siranush lives under a bridge in Nerkin Charbakh district with her husband and three grandchildren.

A1+ referred to their family status 1.5 years ago but the story has found no response. Neither the Ministry of Social Affairs nor the heads of the country seem to care for the family living under an open sky.

Nobody is concerned over our status. They only say we must vacate the territory as if we are criminals, saboteurs or agents. Aren’t our authorities interested in people living under the bridge?" Siranush Melikian wonders. The family is hardly able to make both ends meet.

We toil and moil all summer, grow vegetables and fruit to feed the children. Nobody wants to employ elderly people like us. But the children cannot live without food, grandma Siranush says.

Her daughter Liana has tried hard to find a job. But all her efforts have failed as she has no registration. The state is simply unaware of the family’s existence.

I pray for children every day. I only want them to go to bed with a full stomach, Mrs. Siranush said all in tears.

Siranush Melikian is a unique personality. She is not vexed by the ongoing hardships and obstacles of life. She thanks God for every day and nurses hopes somebody will finally hold a hand to the family after getting familiarized with their inhumane conditions.