Looking for proof that things are getting better in Baghdad? Look no further than the going price for small home generators, which USA Today reports has dropped from $140 to $65 in the last week. Prices go down when demand falls - and demand for generators is falling because Baghdad's electrical power situation has improved dramatically. USA Today:
For the first time since Baghdad fell April 9, the capital city and most of the country have enjoyed four straight days without a significant outage. Coalition officials are optimistic they can keep the lights on because sabotage and looting has dropped and electricity output is near prewar levels. "The power situation has not been this good since before the Kuwait war," says security guard Majid Abdul Reza, 27. Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990.
At the 3,000-employee State Company for Leather Industries, production of shoes, jackets and other leather-goods is up 15% since Saturday, says foreman Mohammed Madhi. "When there is power, there are jobs."
Coalition officials say they want to build enough capacity to generate 6,000 megawatts, anticipating more demand as businesses begin operating again and Iraq attracts foreign investment.
"I can finally sleep at night without having to listen to the roar of generators," says Najem Abid, 42, a Baghdad factory worker.
Fadi Abdula Ameir al-Saher's small jewelry store now stays open three hours longer, until 9:30 p.m. "Everything is much better than it was even last week," he says. "In terms of security, women and families can feel safe shopping after dark."
Electricity has its downside. "Now the children will not leave the house," says Lamia Younis, a mother of four. "They just sit at home all day watching satellite TV."
Of course, I fully expect the French media to report that Baghdad merchants who sell power generators are suffering economically because of actions by the U.S.-lead Coalition Provisional Authority. [Hat tip: The Bush Blog] |
