Key Points
- Severe electricity shortages leave Abkhazia facing a humanitarian crisis.
- Russia has not responded to Abkhazia’s urgent requests for aid.
- Cryptocurrency mining increases power demand, escalating tensions.
A stern warning about an impending “humanitarian catastrophe” was given on Saturday by Abkhazia’s leader, Badra Gunba, as the breakaway Georgian province struggles with acute power outages.
Prolonged power outages push Abkhazia toward humanitarian disaster
In a video speech that was shared on Telegram, Gunba emphasized the catastrophic effects of extended power outages that have interfered with vital services. The area is currently “in total darkness, literally and figuratively,” he said, adding that “turning off the light for 9-11 hours a day is a verdict on the healthcare and education systems.”
Gunba disclosed that, despite earlier requests being denied, he had made new pleas to Russia for help with energy. Low water levels caused the Enguri hydroelectric dam, a vital electricity source, to shut down in early December, sparking the crisis.
Because of this, Chernomorenergo, the state energy provider, was compelled to implement severe rationing, cutting the amount of time that electricity was available to less than three hours each day. Residents are finding it difficult to manage with the shortages, and as winter conditions deteriorate, there is little chance of fast respite.
Political instability adds fuel to Abkhazia’s mounting challenges
The political climate in Abkhazia is already unstable, and the electrical issue has made it worse. Widespread demonstrations against a contentious Russian investment deal broke out last month, forcing the resignation of Aslan Bzhania at the time. In the face of mounting dissatisfaction, vice president Gunba took over as interim head.
In September, Moscow cut off cash used to pay salaries for state employees, such as teachers and doctors, by suspending social payments to Abkhazia, further exacerbating the region’s problems.
Because cryptocurrency mining uses a lot of electricity, it has put additional strain on Abkhazia’s already scarce energy supplies. Tensions inside the government have been raised by the problem, and last Thursday there was a violent confrontation.
According to Reuters, another deputy shot and killed a politician outside Sukhumi’s parliament, allegedly during a discussion over outlawing bitcoin mining.
The conflict highlights the region’s increasing desperation as political unrest and energy shortages combine to create an ideal environment for problems.
With critical systems on the verge of failure, Abkhazia’s persistent political unrest and lack of Russian assistance might further destabilize the province as it attempts to resolve its electrical issue.
