Internet Disconnection in Abkhazia to Prevent Unlawful Mining Operations

In the mountainous region of Abkhazia, an energy crisis has been unfolding since December 9. The crisis, primarily caused by illegal mining activities, has resulted in electricity being supplied only twice a day for a limited period of two hours and 20 minutes.

According to a report by Interfax, the annual electricity consumption of mining farms in Abkhazia exceeds 350 million kWh, accounting for half, or even more, of the current energy deficit in the region. Timur Dzhindzholia, CEO of Chernomorenergo, revealed that mining farms operating in Abkhazia consume between 40 to 45 MW of electricity.

To combat the illegal cryptocurrency mining contributing to the crisis, internet providers in Abkhazia temporarily disabled internet services from midnight to 7:00 AM, at the government's request, on December 10.

Authorities in Abkhazia have taken measures to respond to the energy crisis. Schools and kindergartens have been suspended for a week, and a special task force has been established to ensure energy security in the region. However, the name of the task force is not currently known.

A state of emergency is being considered as a response to the crisis, with a decision expected later today. No specific actions or solutions to address the energy crisis or illegal mining were mentioned in the report.

Despite these challenges, Timur Dzhindzholia emphasised the severe impact illegal mining has on the region. The crisis has led to a significant disruption in electricity supply, affecting the entire population of Abkhazia.

As the situation continues to unfold, updates on the special task force and the annual electricity consumption of mining farms are eagerly awaited. The people of Abkhazia hope for a swift resolution to the energy crisis and a return to normalcy.