Changes have been made in Uzbekistan to the rules for caring for green spaces located near residential areas. According to a presidential decree signed on February 5, residents of apartment buildings are now allowed to water trees and shrubs at any time of the day, provided they have a water meter installed.
This innovation ends years of disputes over nighttime watering schedules. Previously, the use of drinking water for these purposes was only permitted from midnight to five in the morning, and significant fines were imposed for violations of these regulations. Such restrictions caused dissatisfaction among residents, as the lack of moisture led to trees drying out, even despite the implementation of the large-scale "Yashil Makon" program.
Additionally, the new decree introduces a requirement for an inventory of all green spaces in the yards. This work will be carried out by management companies, and information about each tree and bush will be entered into a digital system called Mening uyim. The responsibility for the preservation of green spaces now falls not only on utility services and local administrations but also on the Committee for Ecology and the Ministry of Construction.
The state plans significant investments in greening yards. In 2026-2027, at least 10% of all allocated funds will be directed towards planting new trees and creating modern irrigation systems.
It is important to note that the process of easing regulations began at the end of last year. Amid deteriorating air quality in Tashkent, restrictions for the private sector and businesses were first lifted. In addition to allowing round-the-clock watering, authorities are also considering the installation of special reservoirs near multi-story buildings to reduce the burden on the drinking water supply system.
