The environmental party of Uzbekistan has put forward a proposal to change the approach to designing public transport stops in Tashkent. The initiative involves launching a pilot project that will make waiting for buses more pleasant under conditions of intense summer heat.
Despite the active development of dedicated bus lanes (BRT) in the capital, which has helped speed up movement and partially reduce traffic jams, environmentalists believe that the development of the transport system must go hand in hand with ensuring comfortable conditions for all passengers.
The problem of insufficient protection from sun and shade at many recently installed stops has become particularly evident this summer. This creates serious difficulties for the elderly, children, and citizens with weakened health.
As a solution, the party proposes implementing a pilot project that will initially cover 10–20 locations to test modern and ecological solutions. Planned elements include sun shelters, installation of solar panels, use of energy-efficient lighting, as well as planting drought-resistant plants and creating structures with natural ventilation.
Furthermore, the possibility of integrating bicycle parking and rainwater harvesting systems is being considered. It is expected that such stops will not only increase user comfort but also contribute to improving the city's ecology by reducing dust and increasing the number of green areas.
The Eco-party has appealed to the city authorities, demanding a review of the process for installing new stops, ensuring that local residents' opinions are taken into account and that advanced ecological technologies are actively implemented. It should be noted that the first stop with workout elements was previously installed in Tashkent, located near the Sergeli car market.
Uzbekistan authorities have confirmed their intention to implement a large-scale project to form a 'green belt' around the capital. According to the plan, no less than 50 million drought and heat-resistant trees and shrubs will be planted in this area by 2045.
This project was initiated by presidential decree and is overseen by the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change. The main objectives of the initiative are to improve the ecological situation in Tashkent, reduce dust, and increase the area of green zones around the city. It is planned that the protective forest plantations will cover an area of at least 58 thousand hectares, using plant species capable of effectively retaining dust and adapted to the local climate. The survival rate of the new seedlings is expected to reach 85%.
Greening efforts are already underway: over 1.35 million trees have been planted in the capital and neighboring districts over the past years. During 2025–2026 alone, new plantings were carried out in Bektemirsky, Yangihaotsky, Tashkent, and Kibray districts. In the future, the project will be expanded, with new green areas appearing in Yangihaotsky, Sergeli district, and Bektemirsky districts. Additionally, a green area of about 100 hectares is planned along the Chirchik River.
In addition to creating the green belt, over 385 hectares have been allocated in Tashkent and the region for botanical and dendrological gardens, as well as nearly 140 hectares for public parks. Authorities emphasize that the 'green belt' concept goes beyond simple planting; it includes implementing irrigation systems, ensuring continuous care for vegetation, monitoring air quality, and protecting these areas from construction development.
Specialists will assess trees growing along roads: if they meet established standards and do not impede traffic, they will be preserved and integrated into the general green infrastructure. Responsibility for preventing illegal logging or damage to trees rests with the ecopolice, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the National Guard. Previously, Uzbekistan updated the regulations for the use of trees and shrubs not included in the state forest fund. Now, the felling of large trees within the framework of state or major investment projects is possible only by presidential decision. The new document also establishes rules for replanting, introduces paid permits, and strengthens requirements for the care of green spaces.
According to the press service of the Road Traffic Management Center, the movement of vehicles will be temporarily restricted on parts of Mustakkillik Avenue in Tashkent. These restrictions take effect from July 2 to July 13, 2026, and are related to construction and repair work.
The work is being carried out in the Mirzo-Ulubek area with the aim of improving road infrastructure, optimizing traffic flows, and creating more convenient conditions for public transport movement.
The restrictions will be in effect from 01:00 on July 2 until 06:00 on July 13, 2026. The closed section of the roadway is located between the intersection of Mustakkillik Avenue and Mirzo Ulugbek Street, as well as between the intersection with Akkurgan Street. Movement will be prohibited on the closed section in the direction indicated on the map published by the Road Traffic Management Center.
To minimize inconvenience for road users and prevent congestion in the road network, temporary two-way traffic will be organized on the opposite side of the avenue, depending on the current traffic situation. The Road Traffic Management Center strongly recommends that drivers plan their routes in advance and take into account the introduced restrictions during travel.
