Committee on Competition Calls for Review of Electricity Restrictions Linked to Waste Collection Debts

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Committee for the Development of Competition and Protection of Consumer Rights has sent a request to the Agency for Waste Management and Circular Economy, proposing a review of temporary electricity restrictions imposed on citizens due to unjustified debts for solid household waste collection, the agency’s press service reported.

According to the committee, during 2025 the central office and regional branches received 1,141 complaints related to waste collection services. In the first months of 2026, this number has already exceeded 850, indicating a sharp increase in grievances. Citizens primarily reported untimely waste removal, poor service quality, violations of contract terms, and unjustified debt charges by service providers, which in turn led to restrictions on their ability to pay for electricity.

Analysis revealed that in several regions the legally mandated minimum frequency of waste collection was not being observed, while residents were still being charged for services that were not actually provided. The highest number of complaints was recorded in Namangan, Kashkadarya, Jizzakh, Tashkent, and Ferghana regions.

In response, the committee recommended that the agency ensure timely and quality waste collection, prevent unjustified debt accruals, and reconsider electricity payment restrictions imposed as a result of such charges.

The agency reminded that, according to current legislation, solid waste collection services must be provided within set timeframes and at a defined frequency. If a service is not provided or is performed inadequately, the consumer is exempt from payment for the relevant period.

The Committee for the Development of Competition urged citizens to report violations concerning the quality of utility services to the competent authorities and confirmed that efforts to protect consumer rights in this area will continue.