Nearly 800,000 citizens in Uzbekistan have had approximately UZS 22bn (over $1.8mn) in unjustified utility debts recalculated following an investigation by the Competition Committee and relevant organizations, according to the committee's press service.
The investigation examined cases in which utility charges continued to be billed to citizens at their primary residences despite their temporary absence, including periods spent living, working, seeking employment or studying abroad. The review found that subscriber information did not accurately reflect residents' actual circumstances. In some cases, information about new subscribers had also not been entered into billing systems.
According to the Committee, nearly 800,000 citizens were charged for household waste collection services during periods when they were not residing at their registered addresses and the services were not provided to them. The investigation also identified approximately 100 individuals who had been charged for drinking water supply despite not residing in their homes, which were not equipped with water meters.
Following the investigation, service providers recalculated approximately UZS 22bn (over $1.8mn) in unjustified debts, restoring the rights of nearly 800,000 citizens. Under current regulations, utility debts can be recalculated when changes in the number of residents are confirmed by supporting documents.
If the necessary documentation is provided, recalculation applies from the date the number of residents changed. Without supporting documents, charges can be recalculated for the preceding three months. To prevent similar cases, the Competition Committee proposed integrating utility billing systems with migration databases.
The Committee also submitted proposals to relevant agencies and organizations to introduce monthly recalculations for subscribers and their household members who remain abroad for more than one month. The recalculations would continue until their return.
Earlier inspections by the Competition Committee also identified cases of unlawful charges for gas, electricity and water supply. In one case in Samarkand, a citizen was incorrectly charged UZS 1.3mn ($108) for gas consumption. The amount was subsequently recalculated.