In a report released at a news conference in the city of Buston in Sughd province, the mayor of the city, Ms. Nigorakhon Ghafforzoda, recently told reporters that despite all efforts, the problem of water supply remains unresolved in the city.  “We hope to solve this problem by the end of the summer," Ghafforzoda said, according to Sugdnews.

It's important to note that the water issue has been unresolved for many years for the residents of Buston.  With the onset of each warm season, the water either does not reach the residents of high-rise buildings or reaches them with limitations.  In recent years, water has been shut off both day and night.

Due to the terrain where the city is located, residential areas are at different elevations.  Typically, residents of higher streets and those living on the upper floors of multi-story buildings suffer the most from the lack of water.

In addition to the scheduled water supply, residents also complain about the poor quality of water: dirty and murky water flows from the taps, making it unsafe not only for drinking but even for washing clothes.

Buston authorities recognize that the water supply problem is one of the most pressing issues in the city.  Every year, they solemnly promise to resolve it.  Newly elected mayors, upon taking office, loudly declare that they will focus all their efforts on addressing this issue.  However, the problem remains unsolved.

Photo / Buston municipal waterworks

The reason for this long-standing issue is as old as time.  The pipes in Chkalovsk (the former name of Buston) have not been replaced since the city was built.  After 70 years, some have corroded to the point where repairs are useless—they need to be replaced.  As water passes through such pipes, it becomes unsafe to drink.