Zeybek questions delays in natural gas connections and network expansion in İskeçe
The independent MP has submitted a parliamentary question over construction delays, outstanding household and business connections, and the limited geographical coverage of the distribution network.
Independent MP for İskeçe (Xanthi), Hüseyin Zeybek, has submitted a parliamentary question calling for explanations over delays in natural gas connections and the expansion of the distribution network in the city, as well as measures to complete the outstanding works.
In his intervention, Zeybek pointed to growing dissatisfaction among residents over delays in extending the distribution network and connecting homes and businesses, despite repeated announcements that construction would be accelerated. Several parts of the city, he noted, still lack access to the network.
The project began in 2021 with the signing of a €17.1 million contract covering İskeçe (Xanthi) and Drama. It was initially expected to be completed in stages by 2023. However, more than five years later, significant work remains outstanding. The distribution company has acknowledged the delays and pledged to accelerate and complete construction, according to Zeybek.
The MP also cited the approved 2025–2029 Development Programme for the Xanthi Municipal Unit, which envisaged the construction of 15 kilometres of new low-pressure distribution network in 2025 and a further 36 kilometres in 2026. Planned investments for the five-year period exceeded €12 million.
Despite these targets, Zeybek said there was no clear public information on the extent to which the planned works had been implemented or how many connections remained pending.
LIMITED NETWORK COVERAGE RAISES FURTHER CONCERNS
Zeybek also questioned the limited geographical coverage of the network, noting that several neighbourhoods and settlements in İskeçe (Xanthi) remain excluded without a clear timetable for connection.
The approved programme provides for only an additional three kilometres of network during 2027–2029, raising questions about the scope of future expansion, he argued.
SIX QUESTIONS SUBMITTED TO THE MINISTER
In his parliamentary question to the Minister of Environment and Energy, Zeybek requested answers on six issues:
- What has caused the multi-year delays in network construction and the completion of connections in İskeçe, despite the original 2023 deadline? Have the distribution company or contractors been held accountable?
- How many kilometres of network have actually been built and commissioned to date, compared with the 51 kilometres planned for 2025–2026? How many connections have been completed, how many applications remain pending, and what is the average waiting time for consumers?
- Why is network expansion limited to specific parts of the city? What criteria determine which areas receive service, and what plans exist for neighbourhoods and settlements that remain outside the network?
- To what extent have the more than €12 million in planned investments for the Xanthi Municipal Unit been implemented? Are there delays in using available funds or risks to project financing?
- What changes are envisaged for İskeçe under the new 2027–2031 Development Programme? Will the network be expanded further, or will previously scheduled works be postponed?
- What specific measures will the ministry take to accelerate construction, complete pending connections and extend the network to more parts of the city? What is the updated timetable for completing the works?
- Zeybek called for a clear account of the project's progress and a concrete timetable to address the outstanding work and improve access to natural gas across the city.
