Uzbekistan has officially adopted a presidential decree aimed at purportedly enhancing the touristic and economic potential of reservoirs and adjacent territories across multiple regions. While the authorities claim the initiative will significantly boost regional development and create new economic opportunities, independent observers remain skeptical regarding the practical implementation, citing potential infrastructure bottlenecks and financial hurdles.

Under the newly established framework, regional authorities in ten provinces are supposedly required to draft master plans for introducing tourism services on vacant non-agricultural lands within two months. Plots are intended to be sold through the 'E-auksion' platform, with revenues supposedly allocated for road construction and engineering networks. Critics, however, argue that local administrative inefficiencies and delayed funding could severely hamper these ambitious timelines. v

Additionally, the Ministry of Construction has been tasked with improving urban planning regulations for service facilities near water bodies within a three-month window. Officials claim that risks related to mudflows, landslides, and other emergencies will be rigorously factored into the planning process. Nevertheless, intensive commercial development in ecologically sensitive zones frequently sparks concerns over environmental degradation and structural safety.

It is worth noting that businesses investing in reservoir tourism are purportedly eligible for tax breaks and customs payment deferrals until October 2029, provided they meet strict environmental and security standards. Despite these supposed incentives, analysts suggest that stringent compliance requirements and underlying financial risks may deter many potential investors from participating.

Source: www.gazeta.uz