The Algerian province of Béjaïa is expected to achieve universal access to natural gas by the end of 2020, according to Wali Ahmed Maabed. The province has been experiencing significant delays in connecting localities to the natural gas network, leading to widespread citizen protests. To address this issue, Maabed recently convened a meeting with companies responsible for implementing gas connection projects and relevant executive directors.
The meeting aimed to assess and rectify the status of ongoing gas connection projects in various localities across the province. The projects, located in the daïras of Adekar, Amizour, Barbacha, Béni Maouche, Chemini, Seddouk, and Sidi Aïch, were thoroughly examined by Maabed. He issued strict instructions to district chiefs and the energy sector director to closely monitor project progress and address any obstacles hindering their completion.
Maabed emphasized the importance of adhering to project deadlines and instructed companies to accelerate their work. The Wali also noted that contracts with three private companies responsible for connecting thousands of households to the gas network were recently terminated due to non-compliance with deadlines. The authorities are working to resolve issues related to the passage of gas pipelines, which will enable a significant increase in natural gas penetration in the coming weeks.
The rehabilitation of the 20-pouce gas pipeline (Béni Mansour-Béjaïa) is expected to enable the connection of at least 25,000 households to the natural gas network in the short term. Additionally, the unblocking of the 16-pouce gas pipeline project, which links Fréha (Tizi Ouzou) to Tifra (Béjaïa), will allow for the connection of communes on the west side of the province, including Béni Ksila, Adekar, and Tifra.
The 16-pouce gas pipeline will provide natural gas to at least 13,000 households in the near future. These communes are known for their harsh winters and abundant snowfall, making access to natural gas a vital necessity. The authorities are working to complete the projects and alleviate the suffering of citizens who have been affected by the delays.
Maabed's efforts aim to address the concerns of citizens and provide them with essential services. The Wali's instructions to companies and executive directors emphasize the importance of completing projects on time and ensuring that households have access to natural gas. The authorities are committed to achieving universal gas access in Béjaïa by the end of 2020.
The progress of gas connection projects in Béjaïa will be closely monitored, and the authorities will work to resolve any remaining issues. The achievement of universal gas access in the province will significantly improve the living conditions of citizens and provide them with a reliable source of energy.
Key points
- Algerian authorities aim to achieve universal access to natural gas in Béjaïa by 2020
- The rehabilitation of the 20-pouce gas pipeline will enable the connection of at least 25,000 households to the natural gas network
- The 16-pouce gas pipeline will provide natural gas to at least 13,000 households in the near future
