Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 9 to 12 February, gas supplies to compressed natural gas (CNG) stations in Uzbekistan were temporarily restricted, according to UzEnergoInspection.

The agency explained that during extreme cold spells, natural gas is prioritized for households and social facilities to maintain stable pressure in the gas transportation system. Once pressure levels are normalized, CNG stations resume receiving gas in full.

"Due to the increased demand for natural gas and the sharp drop in temperatures across the country, local authorities temporarily reduced gas supplies to CNG stations in accordance with the established schedules," the inspection body stated.

In recent days, drivers have reported long queues at gas stations and CNG station shutdowns. There were also reports of long lines at gasoline stations and shortages of AI-80 gasoline. Social media users noted a sharp increase in taxi fares.

Disruptions at CNG stations may have been exacerbated by a gas pipeline accident in Bukhara Region on February 10. A gas leak was detected at the 106th kilometer of the Bukhara-Ural main gas pipeline, which is operated by the Gazli Main Gas Pipeline Administration.

The Ministry of Energy stated that until the issue is fully resolved, restrictions on gas supply to CNG stations will remain in place across the regions to ensure uninterrupted gas supply to households and social institutions. Later, the ministry clarified that after assessing the situation, CNG stations would gradually resume operations in coordination with regional authorities.

Additionally, UzEnergoInspection addressed concerns regarding fuel price hikes and allegations that AI-80 gasoline was being sold as AI-92 at Carvon gas stations. Following inspections at five gas stations in Tashkent, inspectors collected AI-92 gasoline samples but found no violations in quality. The price of one liter of fuel was recorded at 10,700 soums.