Wave of accidents on heating networks in Russia
With the onset of cold weather, large-scale accidents on heating and water supply systems are being recorded in various regions of Russia. This was reported by the Centre for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defence Council.
In the Irkutsk region, more than 160,000 people were left without heating after an accident at a thermal power plant. In Novosibirsk, dozens of houses lost heat due to a break in the heating main. In Tyumen, a series of accidents on heating networks has been recorded. In the Rostov region and the Stavropol region, residents complain of interruptions in water supply.
The Russian Ministry of Construction acknowledges that almost half of the utility networks are worn out. According to the ministry, 42 per cent of the nearly one million kilometres of pipes need to be completely replaced. However, the pace of repairs remains slow.
Analysts emphasise that the main reason for the degradation of housing and communal services in Russia is related to the war against Ukraine. Regional budgets are being cut across the country, military spending is increasing, and infrastructure projects are being pushed into the background. Federal subsidies are falling, and money is being directed primarily towards the Kremlin's military orders.
The CSD notes that billions are being spent on bombing Ukraine, while in Russian regions, utility networks are being destroyed due to underfunding. According to experts' forecasts, as the war continues, the number of accidents will increase, and the restoration of systems will become even more difficult.
