According to the specialists, the presented version of the general plan contains serious contradictions and risks that could exacerbate the already existing problems in the city.
The experts focused primarily on transportation policy issues.
Despite the declared priority of public transport, pedestrians, and cyclists, the actual solutions in the project, according to specialists, are aimed at expanding the street network and building new interchanges.
At the same time, there is a lack of justification confirming that such measures will indeed reduce the load on the roads. Experts warn that without a comprehensive transportation model, increasing road infrastructure may lead to a rise in vehicle traffic and worsening congestion.
Additionally, the urban planning section of the document raises many questions. The general plan does not specify clear restrictions on building heights and density, especially in the central part of Bishkek. This creates risks of losing the historical appearance of the capital and chaotic increases in construction, according to experts.
The document also does not provide mechanisms for guaranteed land reservation for social facilities, such as schools and kindergartens, which may lead to their shortage against the backdrop of active housing construction.
Environmental aspects and issues of greening have also become subjects of discussion. Experts point out that the calculation of green zones includes areas that are actually inaccessible to city residents, and there is a lack of reliable legal protection for these territories.
Without a clear establishment of the status of such lands, there is a risk of their development. The project also acknowledges the high level of air pollution in the city; however, the proposed measures are general in nature and do not take into account building density and transportation loads.
Experts emphasize that the general plan lacks a clear implementation mechanism. The stages of execution, sources of funding, and distribution of responsibility among various state and municipal structures are not specified, which raises doubts about the feasibility of achieving the stated goals.
"Urban Hub Bishkek" noted that the general plan should not just be a formal strategy but a real tool for the development of the capital. Experts urged the Bishkek city hall to refine the project considering professional recommendations and ensure open discussions of key decisions before its final approval.
