Free petrol boon for Turkmen car drivers

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2008

ASHGABAT (AFP) — Turkmens will be taking to their cars with a spring in their step from Saturday after the government declared it will be giving drivers 120 litres of free petrol every month.

Drivers of trucks, tractors and buses will get 200 litres for free every month and motorcyclicts will get 40 litres, according to a decree published in the government daily, Neutral Turkmenistan.

"The owners of transport vehicles will be given coupons giving them the right to free refuelling" at petrol stations, the newspaper said.

Coupons will be given out at banks from Monday to anyone who can provide a Turkmen passport and a registration document for their vehicle.

For drivers purchasing petrol above the limit, however, the price will go up to market levels,...