He noted: "Starting today, November 13, there should be no celebrations after 10:00 PM. All events must conclude by this time, and lighting in restaurants should be turned off at 10:10 PM. Some may try to delay cleaning or washing dishes, but this is unacceptable. At exactly 10:00 PM, the lights in establishments will be turned off. Finish your business by this time: both the celebrations and cleaning can be left for the morning," stated Kamchybek Tashiev.
Authorities' Reaction
Local authorities and energy companies have begun reporting on the implementation of the head of the State National Security Committee's directive. The Bishkek city hall announced measures to enforce the noise law. Managers of all catering establishments, including bars, clubs, and banquet halls, have been prohibited from holding events after 10:00 PM, and they are required to conclude operations by this time. All electrical devices, especially those that consume a lot of energy, such as stoves and heaters, must be turned off.The document also specifies noise level restrictions during the following time periods:
- on weekdays - from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM;
- on weekends and holidays - from 10:00 PM to 9:00 AM.
- in government and administrative buildings - from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM;
- in educational institutions - from the end of the educational process until it begins (except for systems necessary for the functioning and preservation of buildings).
Peak Load Hours
The third document concerns the rules for interaction between the energy supply company and clients. These are the "Rules for the Use of Electric Energy," which have been in effect since 2018 without changes.According to one of the points, the use of electric heating devices is prohibited during peak load hours. In case of non-compliance with this rule, the licensing organization has the right to annul the conditions and terminate the contract.
Thus, none of the regulatory acts referenced by the authorities contain grounds for demands to close cafes and restaurants and turn off electricity after 10:00 PM.
