In Tashkent, bright yellow plaques indicating state protection of architectural heritage sites have appeared in recent weeks, causing dissatisfaction among city residents.
These plaques were noticed at the entrance to the 'Cosmonauts' metro station, which was recently included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. They were also present on the black cube of the 'Courage' memorial complex, dedicated to the liquidation of the consequences of the 1966 Tashkent earthquake, and on the monument to Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, who died in the capital of Uzbekistan in 1966.
The publication 'Gazeta' contacted the Tashkent Khokimiyat and the Cultural Heritage Agency, expressing concern that these bright plaques detract from the appearance of the monuments because their color is associated with danger. Furthermore, it was noted that the plaques are fastened directly onto the monuments with screws, causing them physical damage.
Both departments confirmed that they are studying the situation and have passed the information to the responsible parties. A source for 'Gazeta' specified that the approval of these plaques was carried out by the Scientific and Expert Council under the Cultural Heritage Agency.
On Wednesday, architect Alexander Fedorov, author of the Instagram account Tashkent Modernism, published a critical post regarding the approach to the 'Courage' monument. He questioned whether modern architectural solutions, presented as unsightly plaques and cheap plastic, can meet the status of a monument that symbolizes the resilience of the people and preserves the memory of 1966.
Fedorov also pointed out that the very fact of placing such a plaque contradicts the status of a protected object. He also noted that the crack on the cube, reminiscent of the earthquake, had been partially covered up.
In response to 'Gazeta's' inquiry, the press service of the Cultural Heritage Agency reported that the plaque on the 'Courage' monument has already been dismantled. It was stated that it will be installed elsewhere, and its design will be reviewed.