The Minister of Construction, Housing and Communal Services and Utilities of Uzbekistan, Sherzod Khidoyatov, reported on October 13 that over 4973 elevators in the country have failed due to reaching the end of their service life. Furthermore, the country intends to repair or modernize 4953 elevators by 2030.
This statement was made during a Government Hour session in the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan. The issue was raised by deputy Zokirdjon Zohidov, representing the People's Democratic Party. He drew attention to complaints from residents of apartment buildings, including the elderly and people with disabilities, regarding frequent elevator breakdowns and incidents of passengers getting stuck in cabins.
The deputy also demanded clarification on the reasons for these problems persisting despite the implementation of digital monitoring, and inquired about the timelines for equipment replacement. According to the minister, one of the causes of failures is insufficient technical maintenance and delays in carrying out preventive repairs.
Between 2021 and 2026, Uzbekistan replaced 3274 elevators and repaired another 71 using budget funds. A Presidential Decree from February 16, 2026, provides for the phased replacement and repair of 4953 elevators until 2030, and Khidoyatov confirmed the allocation of funding for this program.
However, the minister did not specify how many of the failed elevators are still in operation, nor did he compare the volume of completed work with the goals of the new modernization program.
An electronic database has been created in Uzbekistan containing information on 19,740 elevators in 7,201 buildings. This system separately records 18,489 elevators currently in operation and 93 organizations providing elevator maintenance services.
As of May 1, 2025, a unified interdepartmental electronic platform called Xavfsiz lift has been operational for remote control. This platform monitors compliance with elevator safety requirements, certification rules, maintenance standards, and equipment acceptance procedures. Bodies responsible for construction supervision, industrial safety, and technical regulation participate in inspections.
Khidoyatov explained that developers are obliged to upload documents confirming that elevators meet safety requirements, conclude contracts with maintenance providers, ensure the operation of communication and video surveillance systems, and connect the equipment to the dispatch center. The minister added that the platform will not accept an elevator if these conditions are not met, and consequently, the residential building will not be commissioned.
In July 2025, the government also approved elevator technical inspection procedures, requiring checks at least once a year. According to these rules, equipment must be marked according to its condition: green indicates the elevator is fit for operation, while red indicates a safety threat. The procedures also establish qualification requirements for inspectors.
Khidoyatov emphasized that regular inspections and timely maintenance are critically important for ensuring the safe operation of elevators.