Unjustified utility debts totaling 22 billion soums were recalculated for nearly 800 thousand citizens
As a result of studies by the Competition Committee, nearly 22 billion UZS of unfounded utility debt was recalculated for almost 800 thousand citizens who were temporarily absent from their primary residential address. The Committee proposed integrating billing systems with migration databases.
Unjustified utility debt of nearly 22 billion UZS recalculated for almost 800 thousand citizens
As a result of studies conducted by the Competition Committee, unjustified utility debt of nearly 22 billion UZS was recalculated in favor of almost 800 thousand citizens who did not temporarily reside at their primary residential address.
Information about certain subscribers did not correspond to the actual status, while information regarding new subscribers had not been entered into the system.
The Competition Committee, in cooperation with relevant organizations, studied cases across the republic where payments for certain utility services were accrued at primary residential addresses during periods when citizens temporarily lived elsewhere or were abroad.
The studies revealed discrepancies in data regarding citizens temporarily residing, working, seeking employment, and studying abroad.
In particular, almost 800 thousand citizens who were not provided with household waste removal services during the relevant period were identified, as well as nearly 100 citizens who did not live in households not equipped with drinking water meters. As a result, the rights of almost 800 thousand citizens were restored by the service-providing enterprises, ensuring the recalculation of nearly 22 billion UZS in unjustified debt in their favor.
In accordance with current regulatory documents, if changes in the number of subscribers are determined based on supporting documents, the debt is recalculated starting from the date the number of persons changed. In cases where supporting documents are unavailable, the recalculation is carried out for the preceding three months.
To protect consumer rights in the utility sector, the Committee proposed integrating billing systems with migration databases. Proposals were also submitted to relevant departments and organizations regarding the introduction of a monthly recalculation system for subscribers and persons living with them who are abroad for more than one month, until their return to Uzbekistan.
Earlier, the Competition Committee initiated cases against regional electric grid enterprises regarding 5.5 billion UZS in unjustified payments collected from entrepreneurs.