07 November 2012, 16:00
Some residents of Elbrus in Kabardino-Balkaria refuse to pay for water
In Kabardino-Balkaria, for a year, some residents of the village of Elbrus refuse to pay for water, explaining that "Allah gives the water." Perhaps, the tariffs for utility services should be revised. This was stated by Rasul Tilov, a member of the Public Council, established under the administration of the dwelling settlement to resolve the situation with non-payers.
In response to the actions of the villagers, the company, providing the village with water supply, switched off the water pump. As a result, during three days, from November 2 ill November 5, tenants of the upper floors of the eight five-storey houses of the village were left without water.
According to Uzeir Kurdanov, the head of the local administration of the rural dwelling settlement of Elbrus, the argument of non-payers is devoid of any religious ground. According to him, the situation has arisen, since the water flows by gravity, and the people, knowing that, do not want to pay.
"To the villages of Elbrus, Tegenekli, and Neitrino, the water comes from several wells by gravity; however, it is not enough without pumping," Uzeir Kurdanov has explained.
He has noted that all wells are leased by a private entrepreneur, who delivers water. In total, he has installed four pumps, and their work requires energy consumption, which should be paid by the businessman on par with taxes. Uzeir Kurdanov has added that at present, the company's debts reach 1.5 million roubles. "Of course, he will not be able to work with those debts," Uzeir Kurdanov says.
The head of the local municipality has established the Public Council, consisting of 60 villagers. With their help, according to Uzeir Kurdanov, the municipal leaders will try to influence the people. "Let's try to convince people of the need to pay," he says.
Author: Louisa Orazaeva Source: CK correspondent