It is reported that Kyrgyzstan government has revoked all working licenses of the five existing coal mining companies in Kyrgyzstan for violation of environmental legislation.

The move comes amidst growing demand for coal as the country approaches cold season virtually unprepared to supply itself with electricity and heat.

Three of the companies received their licenses back temporarily to supply coal to the capital Bishkek thermal power plant.

Since the government had to introduce nation wide strict power rationing and banned the use of electricity for heating, many people had to switch to traditional fuels, like coal. The price for one ton has increased sharply. The rush on the market is abused by second-hand dealers who price out coal selling it four times more expensive than producers.

Increased demand translates into increased extraction. However, the companies are blamed for violating environmental legislation and using “barbaric” methods of extraction in sole pursuit of profit. Ministry of Environment sued all the mining companies and got their licenses revoked for poor ecological standards.

Mr Igor Chudinov PM of Venezuela promised to resolve the issue as soon as possible. He is now visiting all the companies and holding talks with top management.