Queues for Autogas Reemerge in Atyrau

Long lines are once again forming at gas stations in Atyrau. Drivers complain that filling up is nearly impossible without coupons, an Orda.kz correspondent reports.

The situation is especially difficult during rush hours, when dozens of cars can be seen waiting at stations.

Motorists say insiders have easier access to gas, while ordinary drivers are left standing in queues.

Every day is the same. To fill up, you have to wait in a long line. And at some gas stations they even demand coupons. If you don’t have one, you leave empty-handed. How long can we put up with this? one driver said.

Another added:

Promgaz lets you through with a coupon, but we don’t have one.

The Atyrau Oil Refinery produces 550 tons of liquefied gas daily, but half of that supply is sent to other regions —Aqmola, Ulytau, Qostanay, and Qyzylorda. Only a portion of production remains in Atyrau itself.

As for the use of coupons, the regional energy department offered the following explanation:

Promgaz receives only 40 tons of gas per day, which are immediately distributed by coupons. We have no legal grounds to prohibit or limit the use of coupons.

Why does half the gas go to other regions when we can’t even fill up properly here? Shouldn’t our own region’s problems be solved first? drivers asked.

Meanwhile, prices have also risen.

A month ago, the cost of liquefied gas in Atyrau and nearby villages (within 200 kilometers) increased from 77 to 85 tenge per liter. In more remote areas, prices climbed from 82 to 90 tenge per liter.

Wholesale prices went up as well, with one ton now costing 59,722 tenge compared to the previous 51,932.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov