Aesthetics and Safety Instead of Chaos
According to Ramiz Aliev, the city's vice mayor, this measure is justified not only by the improvement of visual perception but also by increased safety.“The main focus here is not on economic benefits, but on creating a more attractive appearance for the city, free from tangled wires at traffic lights and intersections. Other cities have been carrying out similar work for a long time. Moreover, underground wires are protected from adverse weather conditions such as rain and wind, which increases their lifespan,” he added.
An Old Problem
It should be noted that the issue of wires in Bishkek was raised back in 2022. The State Enterprise "Bishkek City Architecture" noted that the city had become "entangled in wires." Specialists pointed out that poles and building facades were cluttered with fiber optic and power cables, which rapidly spread across new districts.Experts warned that if the previous pace of chaotic line placement is maintained, Bishkek could face problems similar to those observed in major cities in South Asia, where wires create dangerous hanging structures. In these countries, laying underground wires is complicated by high groundwater levels during rains. However, such a problem does not exist in Kyrgyzstan.
Where is the Clean Sky?
For the implementation of the "Clean Sky" project, 10 million soms have been allocated for 2025. According to the vice mayor, work has already been completed on Chuy Avenue, partially on Aitmatov Avenue and Gorky Street. “The sky is now clean on Chuy Avenue: there are no wires or internet cables left here,” emphasized Aliev.Currently, the project continues on Mederov, Almatinskaya streets, and Jibek Jolu Avenue. Next year, about 50 million soms are planned to be allocated for further work.
Where Will Wires Be Buried in the Future?
The relocation of wires will take place as part of road reconstruction. “Where road repairs are being carried out, we will simultaneously relocate electrical wires and cables,” noted Aliev.Who Pays and Who Profits?
According to him, the networks under the balance of "Kyrgyztelecom" are overloaded due to the large number of providers and the city's growth. In this regard, the Bishkek city hall has signed an agreement with "Kyrgyztelecom," under which the project will be financed by the city hall, and subsequently, 70% of the income from infrastructure rentals will go to the city budget, as internet conduits will be leased to providers. Thus, Bishkek will not only become more attractive but will also gain a new source of income."Clean Sky" Until 2030
The "Clean Sky" project will be implemented in phases until 2030. The first streets have already begun to be cleared of wires, and further work will be carried out as part of the planned road reconstruction.
