Uzbek gas debtors lose supply

UPI April 28 Gas debtors in the east Uzbek region are to see their supply cut off, Uzbek Namangan TV reported this week. The total public utilities debt in Uzbekistan's Namangan region increased by approximately $2 million in the first quarter of 2006, Namangan TV reported, and continues to increase despite warnings and increased assistance to customers, including debt assistance and a simplified payment process. Olimjon Musaboyev, head of the Oxunboboyev neighborhood, told the program: "Under my leadership, those in charge of streets and responsible for dealing with our neighbourhood's religious-spiritual issues have notified the neighbourhood's residents who have big debts. However, some households are indifferent to these notifications." Gas inspector Saodat Nuriddinova said: "(Debtors) seek opportunities for lavish wedding ceremonies but refuse to pay for public utilities, especially for gas and electricity. As a result, debts continue to increase." The Namangan town gas supply has taken the measure of cutting off service to those financially solvent customers who continue to fail to pay their gas bills. The majority of debts in question range between $30 and $200.