Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Environmental Control Inspection under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change has investigated the illegal felling and relocation of 270 century-old trees along the Beshalysh stream in the Khuvaydo mahalla of Kuvasay city.

According to the agency, despite an official assessment recognizing the environmental value of these trees, on 22 January 2025, the khokim of Kuvasay signed Order No. 31-11-167-Q/25, registering land plots for auction. These plots were designated for the construction of high-rise residential buildings, shopping centers, supermarkets, and restaurants.

The land was divided into two lots and registered in the "YERELEKTRON" automated information system. However, on 3 February 2025, the city’s Department of Ecology issued a negative opinion, deeming the destruction of the green zone unacceptable.

Despite this, from 11 to 14 February, following orders from the deputy khokim for construction and ecology, municipal landscaping workers uprooted and relocated 270 trees using heavy machinery. These included pines, chestnuts, catalpas, Japanese pagoda trees, mulberries, and tree-of-heaven species. In the process, nine trees perished, while the rest were replanted in areas with a high risk of further loss.

Experts estimate the environmental damage at 1.829 billion soums. The case has been referred to the General Prosecutor’s Office for legal assessment and action against those responsible.

This incident has sparked public outrage, underscoring the urgent need for stricter environmental controls and enforcement of ecological laws.