The President of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, announced the introduction of a charge for water, electricity and gas, which had been free of charge under his predecessor, Saparmurat Niyazov, Reuters reports.
Over the course of 24 years, five and a half million inhabitants of Turkmenistan have been enjoying electricity and natural resources for free, but in limited quantities. Until 2014, a free gasoline was distributed in the country (with a limit of 120 litres per month).
Speaking at a government session, the head of the state called such order of granting social benefits inefficient. According to Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper, the President has given an assignment to prepare proposals for cancellation of all privileges. From now on, benefits will be available only to those who need social assistance.
