The editorial team of Kaktus.media decided to find out the current status of the work, what has been done with budget funds, and what financial burdens have fallen on the shoulders of entrepreneurs.
The first thing that stands out is the absence of familiar trading spots and counters. According to Mayrambek Adylbekov, the first deputy head of the Oktobrskiy district administration, one of the first measures was the dismantling of about 40 illegal trading points and awnings.
“Some traders complained about losing their jobs, but their activities were illegal. For those looking for work, the administration has posted lists of vacancies at the entrance to the market from the side of 'Oberon.' These lists are updated,” noted Adylbekov.
The market has changed significantly: over the past year, about 2000 square meters have been asphalted, and the irrigation system, which was practically non-existent before, has been put in order. This has helped to avoid the formation of puddles during rains, improving sanitary conditions.
All work was financed from the city budget.
New Design
Part of the work involves updating the facades of trading pavilions as part of a unified city design code. Each entrepreneur must obtain an approved facade sketch from Bishkek's chief architect.The financing for the facade updates falls on the entrepreneurs themselves. Adylbekov reported that about 30 businessmen have received notifications about the need for updates. Currently, about half of them have already completed the work.
“Entrepreneurs generally understand the need for changes. Some have already made repairs, while others are requesting a postponement to improve their financial situation and complete the work in the spring when it gets warmer,” he added.
Businessmen acknowledge that the requirements are being met, although it requires additional costs. “If the market is being updated, we have to adapt to the new rules,” they say.
The Waste Problem is Being Addressed
Waste at the Orto-Sai market has always caused dissatisfaction among visitors. Bishkek residents often posted photos on social media, urging authorities to pay attention to the unsanitary conditions.Currently, two waste sorting points have been installed at the market, each costing 1 million soms. Now waste is sorted into categories: plastic, cardboard, and organic waste. “Tazalyk” carries out waste removal on a schedule, while private companies collect plastic under separate contracts. Previously, trash was thrown in random places; now the process has become more organized.
Parking: Awaiting a Solution
The parking issue remains unresolved. Car owners still have to search for places for their vehicles. However, the district administration promises that by the beginning of spring, the construction of a multi-level parking lot for 250 spaces will be completed.It is still unknown what the parking fees will be. This will be determined by a private investor upon completion of the construction, which is being carried out in the format of a public-private partnership.
Customer Feedback
Opinions among customers about the ongoing changes are divided. Here are some of their comments:“To be honest, I don’t like the design of the signs—they look too bright and unreadable. There is no unified style.”
“Parking here is still difficult, just like before.”
“It’s a bit cleaner than it was. There used to be a lot of trash, and people were trading right on the road. Now that’s not observed—the road has become wider and freer.”
Have you ever been to the Orto-Sai market?
