Environmental authorities in Tashkent have reported the unauthorized destruction of mature trees during construction works aimed at creating an artificial water reservoir in the Uchtepa district. The incident directly contradicts earlier assurances provided by the local administration, which had claimed that existing greenery within the project zone would be carefully preserved.

On October 14, the Tashkent City Main Department of Ecology and Climate Change conducted an inspection following public reports circulating on social media regarding construction activities between the 11th micro-district of the Kurgontepa makhalla and kindergarten No. 340. Preliminary findings revealed that employees of the Uchtepa District Landscape Maintenance Department unlawfully felled four trees—three ailanthus trees and one ash tree—cutting them down to the base without any permits.

The environmental damage inflicted on the local flora has been officially assessed at 27.28 million soms in accordance with national legislation on the protection and use of plant life. Administrative documentation is currently being prepared under Article 79 of the Administrative Responsibility Code concerning the illegal cutting and damage of vegetation.

Furthermore, the ecological agency noted that the construction activities were initiated without obtaining a mandatory positive conclusion from the state ecological expertise, violating established regulatory requirements. While the disputed site has now been placed under strict departmental oversight, the local administration had previously promoted the project as an initiative to expand green spaces and enhance the urban environment for residents.

Source: www.gazeta.uz