The head of the air protection department of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision, Tashybek uulu Nursultan, reported at a press conference about the positive trends in air quality in Bishkek over the past few years.
According to Nursultan, air pollution monitoring is carried out by Kyrgyzhydromet, which is the authorized body in this area.
“The data from Kyrgyzhydromet shows the air pollution index, which has demonstrated improvement over the past five years. The indicators are expressed in milligrams per cubic meter and represent average annual values,” he added.
In particular, in 2020 the index was 0.033 mg/m³, in 2021 it was 0.029, in 2022 it was 0.040, in 2023 it was 0.034, in 2024 it was 0.023, and in 2025 it was 0.024.
Nursultan noted that this year there is a slight increase in the indicator compared to last year; however, in previous years the index reached 0.040, indicating a significant overall improvement in the situation.
He also mentioned the visual observation of smog: it can be noticed from a height, while considering that the capital continues to grow, with both the number of residential areas and the population increasing.
Speaking about the measures being taken, Nursultan noted that work is being done comprehensively, including in the direction of gasification.
“Although connections to gas are happening, it is not yet possible to do this on a mass scale. Gazprom and the citizens themselves are facing difficulties. We offer preferential loans, but there are not many willing to take them, so we conduct explanatory activities,” he added.
The specialist urged citizens to show ecological awareness and understanding. Nursultan noted that since autumn he has observed people burning waste and leaves themselves.
“Everyone wants to tidy up their territory, but burning waste negatively affects the ecology. It is necessary to raise the level of ecological awareness, as many throw garbage anywhere,” he emphasized.
According to Nursultan, the difference in the cost of heating with gas and coal, according to Gazprom's calculations, is insignificant—about 5,000 soms.
“Some may think that this amount is insignificant for officials. But it is important to approach this issue with awareness, as negative consequences and ecological problems are increasing. It is important to install filters for boilers that run on coal,” concluded Tashybek uulu Nursultan.
