Several villages in Armenia’s Armavir Province have been without bus service since December 25 and local residents point an accusing finger at Republican Party MP Hrant Grigoryan, owner of the company.

The affected communities are Doghs, Amberd, Lernamerdz and Aghvanatoun.

What raises the hackles of locals even more is that bus service is operating normally in the nearby village of Arshalyous, Grigoryan’s hometown.

Even in the best of times, the buses that make the ten daily trips to these Etchmiadzin communities break down regularly and have a host of safety issues.

Private taxis have filled the gap, ferrying passengers back and forth to Etchmiadzin for around 1,200 Drams ($3) one way.

Residents wishing to file complaints haven’t been able to get in touch with bus company director Manvel Vardanyan.

Even when he does decide to pick up the phone, he’s quick to cut irate callers off.

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