Starting in November, Kyrgyzstan will begin issuing new driver's licenses that comply with ICAO international standards. This will allow their holders to cross borders freely. Additionally, starting in 2026, private driving schools will be closed, leaving only state-run institutions or introducing additional lessons into the school curriculum. Training in state driving schools will take 14 months with periodic practice every three months, as reported by Kanibek Tumanbaev, the president's chief of staff.
The country will also begin a mandatory transition to cashless payments. This has become possible due to a new cabinet resolution requiring all urban enterprises in the trade and services sector to accept payments by bank cards and through electronic wallets. Businesses will have to install POS terminals or connect to online payment systems. Exceptions are made only for rural and hard-to-reach areas where infrastructure is still underdeveloped.
Bishkek has once again recorded smog that enveloped the central districts and the north of the capital. Journalists from 24.kg captured on video how the city plunged into a gray haze. The decline in air quality is associated with the start of the heating season when many residents of the private sector use coal. A weak wind does not allow the polluted air to rise and disperse.
Additionally, the country plans to tighten penalties for traffic accidents resulting in fatalities. Currently, lawmakers are working on amendments that will strengthen the responsibility for drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or without a license. Kanibek Tumanbaev noted that there are frequent cases of 16-17-year-olds getting behind the wheel without the appropriate licenses, indicating a lack of basic knowledge of traffic rules.
Other important events and news can be found in the review “Week-24”.
Bishkek-2050: an ambitious master plan or another utopia? Opinions of architects
Photo from the internet. Panorama of Bishkek
The Research Institute of Prospective Urban Development from St. Petersburg has developed a master plan for Bishkek until 2050 at the request of the Kyrgyz cabinet of ministers. This strategic document aims for the long-term development of the capital, strengthening its positions, forming a financial and logistics center in Central Asia, and creating a comfortable urban environment. Experts shared their opinions on the master plan project with 24.kg.
Culling cats in Bishkek: Head of the “Kind Hands” foundation on the consequences
Local authorities' initiatives to reduce the number of stray animals in Bishkek have caused dissatisfaction among citizens. Discussions included culling cats, banning dog barking at night, and feeding stray animals. Vice Mayor Ramiz Aliyev assured that the city hall is not against animals, but order is necessary. Larisa Slobodskaya, head of the “Kind Hands” foundation, shared with 24.kg her concerns that the proposed measures could lead to undesirable consequences and pointed out that years of culling dogs do not solve the problem.
Coal, smog, and transition to gas: winter preparation from the chief engineer of the CHP
Iskander Kokumbaev, chief engineer of “Bishkek CHP,” in an interview with 24.kg spoke about the city’s preparation for the winter season: about coal reserves, possible transition to gas, and expectations from the heating season.
Coal this winter: “Kyrgyzkomur” promises not to raise prices
Every winter, residents of Kyrgyzstan face the problem of coal shortages and high prices. The general director of OJSC “Kyrgyzkomur,” Kairat Mamatov, told 24.kg about the mechanisms for price formation for coal, the advantages of purchasing from state bases, and whether prices will rise during the winter season.
Orphaned children with disabilities in Osh may be left without housing
A resident of the southern capital, Tamara Toktomametova, founded the family-type orphanage “Altyn Uya” in 1998, where she raises orphaned children. However, they may now be left without housing, as the Osh city council has filed a lawsuit for the return of the land on which the house is located.
Taxpayer cabinet: a necessity for every Kyrgyz citizen
The digitalization of public services is actively developing in Kyrgyzstan. The tax service has launched the online service “Taxpayer Cabinet,” which is relevant for every citizen as it provides information not only about tax payments but also about property ownership. In the tax service, 24.kg explained how to register in the system and what data can be obtained.
Osh State University: sewing not just gowns, but the future
In southern Kyrgyzstan, where youth unemployment remains a pressing issue, the college of Osh State University demonstrates how to change the education system. Here, the focus is on practical training, turning the educational process into a self-sustaining endeavor. A journalist from 24.kg learned about the work of this unique model, which stands out against the backdrop of traditional educational institutions, where a diploma often becomes just a ticket to the labor market.
AI: those who do not master technology will be left out of the game
Artificial intelligence has already become an integral part of our lives, influencing the labor market, education, and public services. The world is rapidly changing under the influence of new technologies, and Kyrgyzstan is just beginning to navigate this new reality. In an interview with AI and digital communications expert Stanislav Li, ways to keep up and turn AI from a threat into an ally are discussed.
Arina from Kyrgyzstan shares the realities of studying abroad in Korea
Studying abroad is not always an easy path. For many, it becomes a true test of endurance and adaptation to a new culture and language. Arina Kydralieva, a student from Kyrgyzstan, shared her experience of studying in South Korea, talking about homesickness and the need to cope with difficulties.
Osh or work abroad: 5 mistakes of migrants
Thousands of Kyrgyz citizens leave the country in search of a better life and financial stability. Despite hard work, many cannot realize their dreams. Labor migration is not only an opportunity to earn but also a serious test of financial discipline. Personal finance expert Buazhar Abdykadyrova shared the reason why without proper budget planning, migration can turn into an endless marathon.
Issyk-Kul and Kara-Kamysh: photos and videos from readers
The “Moments of Life” section is created thanks to our readers from 24.kg, who are passionate about traveling around Kyrgyzstan and love taking photos and videos. We will visit the botanical garden in Bishkek, then head to Issyk-Kul and explore several interesting places, as well as take a walk along Lake Sary-Kamysh and around the city of Osh.
Movie premieres next week: samurais and AI
Next week (November 10 - 16), viewers can expect many premieres and continuations of series. Among the new releases is a thriller about neighborly secrets (“The Beast Within Me”) and a historical action film about samurais. Also coming out are the mystical comedy “Khimpkinskie Witches,” the crime drama “The Launderer,” and a comedy about the collaboration between a policeman and AI (“Neurovasyas”). The second seasons of popular series “My Mom's Penguins” and “Palm-Royal” will also be featured.
