Skip to content
Sign In Subscribe
Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: Tashkent plans hot-water outages, A-373 crash kills seven, and new airport site approved

,   and  Lexica
25 min read

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

Fuel Policy Shifts, Pilot Halted, and Tashkent Deputy Mayor Arrested on Bribery Allegations

Published: 2025-09-07

Authorities halted the Piskent road testing pilot unexpectedly as officials move to “optimize” vehicle pricing, signaling potential changes for market regulation and consumer costs. The government ended wholesale sales of AI‑80 gasoline, indicating a transition toward additive-enhanced 92+ fuel, a shift likely aimed at quality and emissions standards but with unclear near-term price impacts. In a high-profile case, the deputy mayor of the country’s second-largest city was detained over an alleged $60,000 bribe tied to residential construction permits, underscoring ongoing anti-corruption drives and risks for developers and municipal processes. Separately, August school exams revealed a large share of graduates received failing grades, with several regions performing poorly—raising concerns over workforce readiness and prompting expectations for education reforms. No official quotes were provided in the source article.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Prosecutor General Reports 900,000 Fabricated Jobs Recorded in 2024

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan’s Prosecutor General Nigmatilla Yuldashev said official reports for 2024 included 900,000 jobs that were never created, underscoring systemic manipulation of employment data. Authorities also documented 78 cases tied to the embezzlement of wage funds totaling 12 billion soums, indicating the issue extends beyond statistical inflation to financial wrongdoing. The falsified entries reportedly led to citizens being listed as formally employed while the figures were showcased as national achievements, potentially skewing policy decisions, budget allocations, and international assessments of labor market performance. The scale suggests oversight gaps across reporting chains and risk for companies and public bodies involved in labor programs.

"The violations go far beyond simply adding extra digits in reports." - Prosecutor General Nigmatilla Yuldashev (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Corruption Probes Expand as Namangan Mayor Arrested; Border Shooting Reviewed and AI-80 Fuel Sales Halted

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan’s week was marked by high-profile anti-corruption actions, governance scrutiny, and security developments. Namangan city mayor Anvar Otakhojayev was detained on suspicion of taking a $60,000 bribe related to land allocation; multiple separate bribery cases involving an investigator and sector specialists were also opened. The Senate debated corruption drivers, largely citing health and education services, while critics argued higher-level financial leakages remain underexamined. Public security concerns persisted after a Namangan police major was dismissed and criminally charged for allegedly beating a citizen, and a Surxondaryo case surfaced where a husband reportedly confined his wife and newborn in a cowshed for months. On borders, Tashkent and Bishkek jointly reviewed an incident in which Uzbek border guards fatally shot two Kyrgyz citizens; Uzbek authorities said the guards acted under law. Fuel policy shifted as state firm Uzbekneftgaz ceased AI-80 gasoline sales via exchange and increased AI-92 volumes. Separately, student crime data from 102 universities triggered a Senate inquiry to the higher education minister.

"The First President saved Uzbekistan from internal wars and clashes… tragedies that befell Syria and others bypassed us thanks to his wise leadership." - Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva (qalampir.uz)

"The Health Ministry has turned into a paid-services provider, not a guardian of public health." - Senator Oral Ataniyazova (qalampir.uz)

"We consider attempts to assign responsibility for this incident to our embassy to be unfounded and unacceptable." - Uzbekistan Embassy in Moscow (qalampir.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Ministries Gain Authority to Issue Interagency Regulations Without Cabinet Sign‑Off

Published: 2025-09-07

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has ordered a shift in rulemaking that allows line ministries and agencies to independently adopt interagency normative-legal acts within their mandates, reducing reliance on Cabinet approval. Justice Minister Akbar Tashqulov said this will streamline policy execution and clarify accountability by redistributing competences among ministries, the government and parliament. The Justice Ministry plans to ensure new regulations align with international standards, while procedures for adoption and registration will be simplified and approval timelines halved. Officials estimate the change will cut the Cabinet’s workload by about 30%, potentially accelerating sectoral reforms and reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks for regulatory updates.

"They will be granted the right to make decisions within their authority without waiting for instructions from the government or the president. This will reduce the government’s workload by about 30%." - Akbar Tashqulov, Justice Minister (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Fines Introduced for Fatigued Intercity and International Drivers After Senate Approval

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan’s Senate approved a measure imposing fines on drivers operating intercity and international passenger or freight routes without adequate rest. The penalty is set at seven times the base calculation amount—currently about 2.9 million soums—targeting fatigue-related safety risks on long-distance corridors. The move aligns with broader regional trends tightening road safety compliance, particularly for commercial transport. Enforcement will likely focus on operators’ duty schedules and rest records, with implications for logistics costs and fleet management practices. Passenger carriers and freight companies may need to adjust timetables and implement stricter monitoring to avoid penalties. No implementation date or additional enforcement mechanisms were disclosed in the brief announcement. The legislation signals a formal shift toward stricter accountability for driver rest standards in long-haul operations.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Foreign Ministry Urges Media to Avoid Rehashing Resolved Cases, Cites Public Confusion Risk

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry asked journalists and bloggers to refrain from reviving issues already resolved, arguing such coverage stirs unnecessary anxiety and confusion. Ministry spokesperson Ahror Burhonov said recent social media debates have spotlighted settled matters instead of current priorities, calling for focus on “truly important” topics and cooperation with state bodies. The appeal follows online outrage over a video from Russia showing a reportedly intoxicated man, who identified himself as a participant in the “special military operation,” verbally abusing an Uzbek taxi driver and brandishing a knife. Tashkent has sent a diplomatic note to Russia requesting identification of the perpetrator and legal action.

“We ask you to raise issues that are truly important for today,” - Ahror Burhonov, Foreign Ministry spokesperson (qalampir.uz)

“Protecting the rights and interests of every one of our citizens abroad is one of the main tasks of our embassies and consulates,” - Ahror Burhonov, Foreign Ministry spokesperson (qalampir.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

Centrum Air Adds Third Airbus A330-300 to Expand Asia and Middle East Routes

Published: 2025-09-07

Centrum Air received a third widebody Airbus A330-300 (UK33031) at Tashkent International Airport, reinforcing its strategy to scale long-haul and high-demand routes. The 358-seat aircraft will operate services to Seoul, Guangzhou, Bangkok, Istanbul, Jeddah, and Medina, enhancing capacity and passenger comfort with upgraded cabins designed for long-haul travel. The expansion positions the airline to deepen its presence on transcontinental markets and broaden its international network from Uzbekistan’s main hub. The fleet increase is framed as part of a growth plan to improve connectivity between Central Asia, East Asia, and the Middle East.

"The arrival of a third A330 symbolizes our ambitions and steady progress. Each new aircraft brings new opportunities, routes, and service levels. We want flights from Uzbekistan to major Asian and Middle Eastern cities to be not just more accessible, but more comfortable." - Abdulaziz Abdurakhmonov, founder and CEO of Centrum Air (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Oppenheimer Signals $1.2 Billion Financing Readiness for Three Andijan Projects

Published: 2025-09-07

U.S.-based financial services firm Oppenheimer indicated readiness to participate in financing three major projects in Uzbekistan’s Andijan region following a presentation by a delegation led by the regional governor at the Uzbek Embassy’s Washington, DC headquarters. The package includes a $180 million textile industry zone to build modern manufacturing facilities, a $20 million “Artificial Recreation Lake” to reposition Khanabad as a tourism hub, and the $1 billion “New Andijan” urban development initiative. Discussions centered on project economics and investment structuring. If progressed, the commitments would channel diversified foreign capital into manufacturing, tourism infrastructure, and large-scale urban planning—aligning with Uzbekistan’s push to attract private investment and accelerate regional development. Oppenheimer’s involvement would likely focus on arranging and mobilizing financing rather than direct equity investment, consistent with its investment banking and brokerage profile.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Global Nuclear Medicine Market Doubles by 2032, Creating Export Openings for Domestic Isotopes

Published: 2025-09-07

The global nuclear medicine market is projected to reach $12.99 billion by 2032, nearly doubling from 2024, driven by rising oncology and cardiovascular cases, precision diagnostics and therapies, and new radiopharmaceuticals, according to Verified Market Research. Supply constraints for key isotopes such as technetium-99m and iodine-131, along with high equipment costs and stringent approvals, remain bottlenecks. Uzbekistan already manufactures iodine-125 and technetium-99m via the VVR-SM research reactor and the Radiopreparat state enterprise, positioning the country to scale exports as demand grows in North America, Europe, and rapidly expanding Asia-Pacific markets. Industry leaders argue timely investment, localization, and integration into global supply chains could yield scientific and commercial gains, especially given local strengths in I-125 production and existing R&D infrastructure.

"If we expand production capacity and market share, we can achieve not only scientific progress but also strong economic returns." - Fakhrulla Kungurov, Deputy Director, Institute of Nuclear Physics (uza.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

BELARUS Tractor Deliveries to Uzbekistan Rise 31% in First Eight Months of 2025

Published: 2025-09-07

Minsk Tractor Works (MTZ) increased exports of BELARUS machinery to Uzbekistan by 31% year-on-year in January–August 2025, exceeding 2,300 units, according to company data. Demand centered on BELARUS 80X, 80.1, 82.3, 1221.3 and 1222.3 models, with shipments also including BELARUS 2023 tractors and tractor kits. The expansion aligns with a build-out of after-sales infrastructure and training. Uzbekistan is developing a national service network for maintenance and repairs while opening MTZ training classrooms to upskill specialists. These steps aim to reduce downtime and boost productivity in agriculture and related sectors where MTZ equipment is widely used.

"A network of service centers is being created for maintenance and repairs, and MTZ training classes are opening to prepare specialists." - Deputy Prime Minister Yuriy Shuleyko (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Energy Inspectors Report 86.5 Billion Soum Loss from Illegal Power and Gas Use in August

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzenergoinspeksiya reported that illegal consumption of electricity and natural gas caused losses exceeding 86.5 billion soums in August. Inspectors identified 179 violations during control raids, uncovering 36.8 million kWh of electricity siphoned (valued at 58.9 billion soums) and 8.7 million cubic meters of gas diverted (27.5 billion soums). Authorities drew up 476 administrative protocols and referred materials to law enforcement for further action. August’s losses were slightly lower than July, when damages topped 96 billion soums, indicating persistent enforcement pressure but continued systemic leakage. The figures underscore ongoing challenges in securing the energy grid, particularly as peak seasonal demand and pricing incentives can drive unauthorized connections. Businesses and households should expect continued inspections, tighter monitoring, and possible penalties as regulators seek to curb non-technical losses and stabilize supply.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

JICA, Investment Ministry Discuss Expanding Project Pipeline Across Energy, Transport, and Human Capital

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan’s Investment, Industry and Trade Ministry held talks with JICA to broaden cooperation across priority sectors. Deputy Minister Shokhrukh Gulamov met JICA’s Tashkent office head Yoshibumi Bito to review a portfolio of 50 projects worth $5.5 billion spanning energy, agriculture and water management, healthcare, infrastructure, and education. For 2025, JICA has dispatched nine advisory groups and missions to help prepare concepts and pre-feasibility documents aimed at accelerating projects in energy, transport, free economic zones, education, tourism, and agriculture. The sides discussed scaling collaboration in healthcare, infrastructure, and industry while advancing initiatives to develop entrepreneurship, education, and human capital. They also emphasized mobilizing additional investment resources for Uzbekistan and activating cooperation mechanisms to channel more financing into the economy.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan and China have moved their relationship to its highest level yet, emphasizing a comprehensive strategic partnership across trade, energy, infrastructure, and agriculture. The Chinese ambassador in Tashkent, Yu Jun, praised reforms under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and highlighted alignment on governance priorities and national interests. Recent milestones include mutual visa-free entry, the launch of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project, and expanded Chinese investment in renewables, waste-to-energy, and grid storage. Uzbek agricultural exports—from cherries to beans—are gaining traction in China as supply links deepen. The “Belt and Road” framework remains the umbrella for project delivery and financing. The ambassador framed next steps as ensuring rigorous execution of leaders’ agreements and advancing new joint initiatives.

"Under President Mirziyoyev’s prudent leadership, a new stage of reforms has begun to build a New Uzbekistan, and they are delivering tangible results." - Yu Jun, Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan (uza.uz)

"Our leaders have elevated bilateral relations to the highest level in history—the new era of an all-round strategic partnership." - Yu Jun, Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan (uza.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

OSCE Marks 50 Years of Helsinki Final Act and 30 Years in Uzbekistan, Emphasizing Regional Cooperation and Youth Engagement

Published: 2025-09-07

A commemorative event in Tashkent highlighted two milestones: the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act and 30 years of the OSCE’s presence in Uzbekistan. Officials underscored the enduring relevance of Helsinki principles for addressing today’s geopolitical, environmental, and social challenges, while framing Uzbekistan as a key regional partner in diplomacy and reform. The OSCE stressed continued support for institutional strengthening, human rights promotion, and security cooperation, with a forward-looking focus on youth inclusion in building a resilient, equitable society.

"As we mark this important date, we reaffirm our commitment to the spirit and principles of the Helsinki Final Act. Contemporary threats demand solidarity and close regional cooperation. Uzbekistan remains our principal partner on this path." - Terhi Hakala, Special Representative of the OSCE Chair-in-Office (uza.uz)

"Today we celebrate, but our main focus must be on the future. Engaging and supporting youth is decisive for building a sustainable and just society." - Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (uza.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Humanitarian Convoy Delivers 300 Tons of Aid to Eastern Afghanistan After Earthquake

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan dispatched nearly 300 tons of humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan’s Kunar and Nangarhar provinces following a deadly earthquake in the country’s east. Acting on President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s directive, the shipment—delivered via Balkh province and handed over at the Astras company site in Hairatan—includes flour, rice, sugar, canned meat, pasta, confectionery, cooking oil, instant foods, red beans and mung beans, bottled water, 5,000 blankets, and over 10 tons of medicines and medical supplies. The handover was attended by Uzbekistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan Ismatilla Irgashev, Surkhandarya Governor Ulugbek Qosimov, and Balkh officials led by Deputy Governor Nurulhodi Abuidris. Afghan authorities conveyed formal thanks for the assistance, underscoring ongoing channels for cross-border disaster response and humanitarian coordination between Tashkent and regional Afghan administrations.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

OSCE Envoy Meets Tashkent’s Afghanistan Representative to Advance Regional Coordination

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ismatulla Irgashev, met OSCE Chairperson-in-Office’s Special Envoy Terhi Hakala on 4 September in Tashkent to review cooperation on Afghanistan and reaffirm regular dialogue. Discussions focused on reviving Afghanistan’s economy and pathways to integrate the country into regional frameworks—an area where Tashkent seeks broader alignment among neighbors and partners. The constructive tone signals continued coordination between Uzbekistan and the OSCE on stabilization tracks that prioritize economic connectivity alongside peace efforts. The meeting underscored prospects for practical engagement, including support for cross-border infrastructure and trade facilitation, contingent on regional consensus.

"We highly value Uzbekistan’s efforts to forge a unified regional approach on the Afghanistan question." - Terhi Hakala, OSCE Special Envoy (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Hosts Oman-Uzbekistan Political Consultations, Sets Joint Action Plan

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan and Oman held political consultations in Tashkent, led by First Deputy Foreign Minister Bahromjon Aloyev and Omani Deputy for Political Affairs Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al-Kharisi. Both sides reviewed bilateral ties and agreed to deepen political dialogue, strengthen inter-parliamentary contacts, and expand cooperation within international organizations. They committed to bolstering the legal framework of cooperation and advancing trade by diversifying external commerce and launching joint investment projects. The agenda also included cultural and humanitarian links—education, research, and tourism—reflecting broader soft-power engagement. The parties exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual interest. The meeting concluded with the signing of a Joint Action Plan between the foreign ministries to institutionalize follow-up and implementation, signaling intent to convert discussions into operational initiatives across multiple sectors.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-09-07

Malaysia’s ambassador delivered a public lecture to faculty and students from leading Uzbek institutions, underscoring reforms in economic modernization, infrastructure, and human capital development under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. He emphasized Uzbekistan’s rising regional role in Central Asia and growing global engagement, framing it as a platform for deeper ASEAN connectivity across diversified economy, digitalization, energy, logistics, and cultural-educational exchange. Education and travel ties are broadening, with over 600 Uzbek students currently enrolled at Malaysian universities and more than 19,000 Uzbek citizens visiting Malaysia in 2024. The envoy pointed to momentum in bilateral projects in tourism and education and the strategic value of Central Asia–ASEAN linkages for sustainable growth and knowledge exchange.

"Uzbekistan is increasingly uniting Central Asian countries while pursuing a more active policy on the global stage." - Malaysian Ambassador to Uzbekistan (uza.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

Tashkent Schedules Rolling Hot-Water Outages in September–October for Winter Prep

Published: 2025-09-07

Tashkent will face planned hot-water shutdowns across multiple districts between 8 September and 10 October as Veolia Energy Tashkent conducts staged maintenance on heating networks ahead of the winter season. Each affected area will see up to five days without hot water, with outages scheduled for 8–12 Sept, 15–19 Sept, 22–26 Sept, 29 Sept–3 Oct, and 6–10 Oct. Detailed street- and block-level schedules cover Mirzo Ulug‘bek, Chilonzor, Yunusobod, Sergeli, Bektemir and central corridors including Amir Temur and Mustaqillik avenues. Media also note separate, planned drinking-water interruptions in certain districts during the same period. The company frames the works as necessary to ensure reliable service in colder months and has asked residents for patience, following a recent city council move endorsing higher hot-water and heating tariffs for households and organizations to support system costs.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Region Allocates 1,310 Hectares for New International Airport Near M‑39 Corridor

Published: 2025-09-07

Tashkent region authorities approved land allocation for a new international airport spanning 1,309.76 hectares across Orta-Chirchiq and Quyi-Chirchiq districts, largely on irrigated farmland and orchards. The site—about 17 km from the current Tashkent airport in the city’s south—was chosen for proximity to the M‑39 highway and the planned Tashkent–Samarkand toll road, positioning it as a logistics hub. The first phase targets capacity for up to 20 million passengers annually, 169 aircraft on stands, and over 40 movements per hour, with a fully digitalized complex using modern technologies. The project footprint is expected to cover roughly 1,200 hectares, indicating room for auxiliary infrastructure within the broader land package. The build signals a scale-up of aviation capacity to support growing passenger flows and regional connectivity.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Kabul Conference Launches 220–500 kV Grid Projects Backed by Regional Partners

Published: 2025-09-07

A Kabul conference on 6 September launched construction of 220–500 kV transmission lines and substations in Afghanistan, with a financing agreement signed during the event. Delegations from Afghanistan and the energy ministries of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan, alongside international organizations and diplomats, attended. The projects are slated for completion by Q1 2027, aiming to strengthen cross-border power cooperation and stabilize Afghanistan’s grid. Uzbekistan signaled readiness to expand collaboration beyond high-voltage links, including modernizing distribution networks, introducing smart metering to improve efficiency and transparency, and providing technical expertise for reliable supply. For regional power trade, these upgrades could facilitate more predictable flows and reduce losses, while creating avenues for Uzbek firms in engineering and equipment. The conference was framed as a step toward resilient energy infrastructure supporting Afghanistan’s broader economic recovery.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Gas Supply Restoration to Industrial Consumers in Fergana Valley Starts This Evening

Published: 2025-09-07

Natural gas deliveries to large industrial consumers and AGTKSh facilities in the Fergana Valley will begin to be restored from 20:00 on 6 September, according to local reporting. Authorities did not provide details on the scope, sectors prioritized, or the cause and duration of prior curtailments. For businesses reliant on steady gas flows—particularly chemicals, textiles, building materials, and power-adjacent operations—the phased resumption could ease production constraints and stabilize short-term energy planning. The timing suggests overnight pressure balancing and sequencing to bring major users back online. No official statement outlined whether household supply was affected or when full capacity will be reached. Companies with energy-intensive processes should monitor dispatch schedules and prepare for potential gradual ramp-up as the network normalizes.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent’s Pedestrian Overpasses Face Accessibility Failures as Lifts and Escalators Sit Idle

Published: 2025-09-07

Anhor.uz reports that many pedestrian overpasses built across Tashkent to improve safety and manage foot traffic suffer from non-functioning or missing lifts and routinely switched-off or broken escalators. Field checks found the largest bridge on Sebzor Street operating only one escalator—and in need of repair—while several lifts have reportedly never been activated since installation. Resident interviews highlight widespread inconvenience, especially for parents with strollers and older people who struggle with steep stairways. The outlet notes prior photo reports and investigations have not spurred fixes, leaving unresolved oversight questions about maintenance, accountability, and service standards. The issue carries safety implications at busy intersections such as Sebzor–Abdulla Qodiriy and Ahmad Donish–Gulg’uncha, where pedestrian flow is heavy.

"I can’t remember when the lifts last worked." - Local resident interviewed by Anhor.uz (anhor.uz)

"Mothers with children are forced to climb stairs, and it’s very difficult for the elderly." - Local resident interviewed by Anhor.uz (anhor.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Schedules Phased Hot-Water Outages Through Early October

Published: 2025-09-07

Tashkent will implement scheduled hot-water shutdowns across multiple districts from September 8 to October 10, affecting residential blocks and major streets in rotating periods. The plan begins September 8–12 in parts of Mirzo Ulug‘bek district and nearby neighborhoods, extends September 15–19 to areas including Chilonzor, Oqtepa, and Kushbegi, and continues September 22–26 across central corridors such as Mustaqillik, Navoiy, Beruniy, and Chorsu. From September 29 to October 3, Yunusobod and adjacent zones are slated, followed by October 6–10 in Sergeli, Qo‘yliq, Bektemir’s “Vodnik,” and the “Quruvchi” complex. The staggered outages indicate maintenance or system balancing ahead of the heating season, with broad coverage that includes key transport and commercial hubs. Authorities advise residents and businesses in named neighborhoods to plan for temporary service interruptions according to the published timetable.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Targets Illegal Builds on Green and Playground Sites After Presidential Order

Published: 2025-09-07

Tashkent authorities have identified hundreds of illegal constructions on green areas, children’s playgrounds, and sports courts, following a June directive from President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to restore such spaces to their original state. Oversight has been assigned to the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Justice Ministry, Uzbekcosmos, and the Cadastral Agency, with satellite and aerial imagery from 2018–2019 compared against current visuals to flag violations. In Mirzo-Ulugbek district alone, 56 cases were found; one 0.27-hectare plot was returned to the state reserve, two criminal cases were opened, and preliminary investigations are underway. Across Yunusabad, Yakkasaroy, and Mirzo-Ulugbek districts, 374 similar cases are under review.

"Working groups are implementing measures to restore the territories," - Mansur Ro‘zimov, prosecutor at the Prosecutor General’s Office (uzdaily.uz)

"Analysis has recorded numerous violations of land legislation," - Saidmurod Saidxo‘jayev, representative of Uzbekcosmos (uzdaily.uz)

The checks will continue across all districts of the capital and nationwide, signaling tighter enforcement of land-use rules and potential reversals of unauthorized developments.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Society

Seven Dead in Multi-Vehicle Crash and Fire on A-373 Near Angren; Government Commission Formed

Published: 2025-09-07

A multi-vehicle collision on the A-373 “Tashkent–Osh” highway near Angren at 12:20 on 7 September killed seven people and injured at least nine, according to the Interior Ministry. Authorities say a Shacman cement truck lost control at a railway crossing and rammed two parked trucks and five cars, igniting a fire that halted traffic across both directions at km 93–94 toward the Fergana Valley. A criminal case has been opened under Article 266, Part 3 (violations leading to fatalities). A government commission led by Deputy Prime Minister Ochilboy Ramatov is investigating causes and support measures for victims’ families. The incident underscores persistent safety risks on key transit corridors, with knock-on effects for logistics between Tashkent and the valley and heightened scrutiny of heavy-vehicle operations and crossing management.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Records 4,350 Traffic Accidents in Eight Months; Yunusobod Leads District Totals

Published: 2025-09-07

Tashkent registered 4,350 road accidents from January to August, according to Open Data Tashkent (anhor.uz). District-level figures show the highest concentrations in Yunusobod (561), Chilonzor (555), and Yashnobod (554), suggesting heavier traffic flows and congestion corridors in the city’s northwest and eastern districts. Mid-range totals were reported in Mirzo Ulug‘bek (475) and Shayxontohur (363). The lowest incident counts were in Yangihayot (205), Yakkasaroy (210), and Bektemir (217), areas with comparatively smaller populations or industrial zones with less through-traffic. For businesses and institutions planning logistics or commuter policies, the data points to persistent risk in high-density corridors and may guide routing, scheduling, and safety investments as the city’s mobility demand continues to rise.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tanker Crash Sparks Fire and Major Traffic Disruption in Angren

Published: 2025-09-07

A road accident involving a truck carrying oil triggered a fire in Angren, causing a major traffic jam, local outlet kun.uz reported. Authorities have not released official casualty figures, but the report indicates fatalities are possible. Emergency services likely face a complex response due to the hazardous cargo, with potential environmental and safety implications for nearby areas and commuters using this corridor. The incident underscores recurring risks on freight routes where fuel and petrochemical transport is common. Drivers should expect delays until firefighting and cleanup conclude, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is anticipated. No official statements from police, emergency services, or local authorities were included at the time of publication, and further updates are expected as responders secure the site and assess damage and casualties.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

$15M Health and Ecotourism Complex Planned at Surxondaryo Salt Cave Through 2035

Published: 2025-09-07

Surxondaryo region plans a €12 million ($15 million) health and ecotourism complex at the Khojaikon salt cave in Sherobod district, staged from 2025 to 2035. The proposed Kapa Yurt Salt Town project, presented by Iran’s Kapa Yurt Soon, includes salt extraction, processing and packaging lines; therapeutic salt pools and baths; wellness centers; and a 500-bed modular hotel. Ancillary facilities would add social infrastructure, an amphitheater, craft centers, and a salt museum, alongside restoring the “Tohir ota” pilgrimage site. Plans call for 200,000 trees, a 1-hectare artificial salt lake, and connections to power, gas, internet, mobile and rail. Authorities project 250 new jobs and up to 200,000 visitors annually, with salt export potential. Officials agreed to conduct detailed design, site selection and phased implementation talks. The region earlier announced a 140 billion soum ecotourism project at the Janubiy Surxon reservoir.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Samarkand Fells Three Plane Trees Near Amir Temur Mausoleum Following Public Outcry

Published: 2025-09-07

Videos circulating on social media show three plane (chinar) trees cut near the Amir Temur Mausoleum in Samarkand, triggering public debate and criticism. Local officials reportedly claim the trees had reached the end of their lifespan, though no formal inspection data or public environmental assessment was cited in the article. The location’s heritage significance heightens sensitivities around urban landscaping and preservation practices in historic zones. For international observers, the incident underscores ongoing tensions between urban management, tourism-area beautification, and environmental stewardship in Uzbekistan’s major cultural centers. The lack of published technical justification or transparent process could invite further scrutiny from conservation groups and residents, and may prompt calls for clearer arborist evaluations, public consultation, and disclosure standards for tree removal in heritage precincts.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Government Streamlines Justice Services with Face-ID Notarization and Fewer Paper Certificates

Published: 2025-09-07

"If a regulation’s implementation is assigned to a specific agency or official, the text will be delivered personally. Only after the recipient confirms they have read it will enforcement be required. This mechanism is already being introduced." - Justice Minister Akbar Tashqulov (uzdaily.uz)

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed plans to expand and simplify justice-sector public services. Since reforms began eight years ago, around 70 legal acts were adopted and 202 service centers opened, offering 500+ services via a single window—many now issued in 5–10 minutes. Persisting gaps include weak inter-agency digital integration and 200+ services still handled manually, limiting access in remote areas. By 2027, services will rise to 900, with about 80 simplified annually and 1,100 interactive kiosks deployed. Roughly 30 mandatory certificates will be scrapped, shifting data-sharing online. Notary services will digitize 20 actions and roll out Face-ID identification, removing the need to present original IDs. A new “Smart Commentary” alert system and AdliyaTV aim to improve legal literacy for citizens and businesses.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Entrance Exam Results Show Nearly Half of Applicants Miss Minimum Score in 2025

Published: 2025-09-07

Nearly half of applicants to higher education institutions failed to clear the minimum threshold in Uzbekistan’s 2025 entrance exams, underscoring persistent regional disparities and gradual improvement from prior years. Of 614,768 test-takers, 41.3% did not surpass the minimum threshold—equivalent to about 30% of the 189-point maximum—while Andijan posted the weakest performance at 47.6% below the cut-off. Bukhara and Tashkent performed comparatively better at 31.4%. The share of regions where a majority failed has narrowed from eight in 2023 to four in 2024 and none so far in 2025, signaling incremental gains. Notable year-on-year improvements were recorded in Karakalpakstan (+9%), Navoi (+8.9%), Syrdarya (+8.1%), Bukhara (+7.8%), and Kashkadarya (+6%). The results suggest continued pressure on secondary education quality and exam preparation ecosystems, with uneven outcomes shaping university access across regions.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Health

Russian Medical Team Launches Second “Mercy Mission” to Tashkent and Samarkand in September

Published: 2025-09-07

Russia’s RZD-Medicine will deploy eight specialists to Uzbekistan on 8–13 September 2025 under the international volunteer program “Mercy Mission,” providing consultations, clinical rounds, and training at designated facilities in Tashkent and Samarkand. The delegation includes general and cardiovascular surgeons, a urologist, obstetrician-gynecologist, endocrinologist, and trauma-orthopedist. The visit prioritizes skills transfer via master classes, lectures, and joint case discussions, with dedicated sessions for medical students. This is the network’s second mission to Uzbekistan after last year’s high-tech surgeries and educational events in Tashkent; three previous participants return. The program, run since 2021 by Rossotrudnichestvo and the Dobro.RF association, has completed 43 missions in 20+ countries, assisting over 15,000 people, and plans broader CIS outreach in 2025 within Russian Railways’ humanitarian strategy.

"We came back to continue our work, strengthen cooperation, expand training programs, and implement new joint projects for patients’ benefit." - Prof. Vladislav Shirinskiy, surgeon (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Patent Granted for Homegrown Treatment Targeting Early-Stage Alcohol Dependence

Published: 2025-09-07

Uzbekistan has issued a patent for a domestically developed therapy intended to treat stage I and II alcohol dependence and prevent relapse, according to kun.uz. While technical details and clinical data were not disclosed, the registration signals movement toward formal recognition of local solutions for addiction medicine, an area where access to specialized care and relapse prevention remains limited across Central Asia. The patent could catalyze partnerships with healthcare providers and open pathways for clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and eventual market introduction, especially if the therapy meets international safety and efficacy standards. For investors and healthcare operators, the development underscores growing R&D capabilities and potential collaboration opportunities in pharmaceutical innovation. Authorities have not yet announced timelines for commercialization or integration into public health programs.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Comments

Related

Latest