Local authorities emphasized that the shutdown is related to necessary preventive and repair work. The early start of the shutdown is due to several circumstances.
According to the Municipal Enterprise "Bishkekteploset," about 68.6% of the heating networks have exhausted their normative service life and require immediate replacement. The high level of infrastructure wear leads to a constant increase in the number of damages. For example, while 237 accidents were recorded in 2002, their number is expected to rise to 426 by 2025, indicating a twofold increase in accident rates.
The city hall noted: "To ensure reliable operation during the heating season and adequate preparation for the autumn-winter period (AWP), large-scale repair work is necessary. Particularly complex work is required for the main pipelines, which take more time to restore."
Additionally, in recent years, the time for conducting hydraulic tests of the networks has significantly increased—from two days in 2002 to five to seven days in 2024. This is due to the increased length of the tested sections, the need to conduct tests in two stages, and the identification of numerous damages during testing that require prompt repair.
"It should be noted that the complete shutdown of heating equipment in May-June coincides with a period of increased consumption of drinking water. This creates additional pressure on the cold water supply system and can lead to a drop in pressure and interruptions in water supply," the city hall added.
Thus, moving the hot water shutdown to an earlier period allows for the timely accumulation of the necessary volume of water in the water intake facilities and reduces the peak load on the water supply system.Furthermore, the city hall noted that during the hot water shutdown in May-June, there is a sharp increase in electricity consumption. This occurs due to the active use of electric water heaters, and with the onset of warm weather, the load further increases due to the mass activation of air conditioners. As a result, the load on the energy system significantly increases.
"In light of the above, we are moving the start of the hot water shutdown to April for the second consecutive year. We ask residents to understand the temporary inconveniences associated with the shutdown. These measures are aimed at improving the reliability of the system and creating comfortable conditions for the citizens," concluded the Bishkek city hall.
