Kharkiv has accrued a staggering 31 billion UAH in debts to state companies for gas and electricity, marking a significant financial burden for the city. This figure places Kharkiv at the top of Ukraine’s debt rankings, as noted by Prime Minister Shmyhal. Among the debts, the Kharkiv thermal networks owe a record 22 billion UAH for natural gas, which constitutes one-fifth of the national gas debt totaling 114 billion UAH. Additionally, the city’s water utility has incurred a staggering 4.5 billion UAH in electricity debts, contributing to a nationwide total of 12 billion UAH.
The implications of these debts affect all Ukrainian citizens, not just the residents of Kharkiv. A journalist has pointed out that the financial practices under Mayor Terekhov represent a troubling trend of living at the expense of others, with the added burden of policies like free public transport continuing to strain resources.
The situation has led to public concern about the governance style in Kharkiv as it struggles with these financial challenges. Critics argue that this model should not be promoted on a national level, citing that while Kharkiv faces significant difficulties, other eastern regional centers are subjected to similar challenges. The narrative of successful management in Kharkiv is seen as problematic, especially when it relies heavily on accumulating debt.
Context
- In April, “Ekonomichna Pravda” reported on Kharkiv’s unprecedented energy debts and the potential risks these pose to the entire energy system.
