Initially, it was planned to build three overhead pedestrian crossings, but public opinion forced a change in these plans. Additionally, the mayor noted that the overhead structures did not align with the "Clean Sky" concept.
“According to the 'Clean Sky' concept, it is necessary to remove all hanging wires and other elements to preserve the view of the mountains. While driving along Aitmatov Avenue, people can admire the mountains, and these views would be spoiled. We received a lot of criticism regarding this, and it also influenced the change in the initial plans,” the mayor explained.
Junushaliev also added that designing underground crossings is a challenging task, as similar structures were not built in Bishkek during the collapse of the Soviet Union, and there were no specialists with the necessary experience. As an experiment, one crossing was built, after which work began on the construction of the others.
It is worth noting that after the reconstruction of Chingiz Aitmatov Avenue, all the "zebras" (crosswalks) disappeared. It was previously reported that an overhead crossing would be built for pedestrians. Work indeed began, but it later became known that the site allocated for the bridge was dismantled. The Bishkek city hall and the Presidential Administration did not comment on the situation, but it was later revealed that underground crossings are planned.
