News about Kyrgyzstan, tourism, attractions, Kyrgyz cuisine, history, traditions, and customs
Local news / Exclusive

Rare mushrooms found in Chui region

In the foothills of the Jayil district of the Chui region, after the first autumn rains and snow, unusual mushrooms for this area were found. According to biologist Irina Stezhko, locals often refer to them as "gruzdi" (a type of mushroom), but scientifically, they are known as "podgruzdok belyi," which belongs to the family of milk mushrooms. "The main difference lies in the absence of milk sap. Gruzdi, unlike podgruzdok, contain a lot of milk sap, which gives them a

19.11.2025, 09:42
In Kyrgyzstan, a center for studying air pollution has been opened
Local news

In Kyrgyzstan, a center for studying air pollution has been opened

The Osh State University has launched a new interdepartmental research center named IRCAPS, which will focus on studying air pollution. This was announced in a press release from the university. The official opening of the center took place on November 18, with the participation of renowned professor Nobutoshi Nava from the Tokyo Institute of Science, the rector of OshSU Kudayberdi Kozhobekov, as well as faculty and students of the institution.

19.11.2025, 09:36
Local news

The Traffic Police will impound vehicles if the amount of unpaid fines exceeds 3000 soms.

Vehicles will be placed in the impound lot if the total amount of unpaid fines exceeds 3000 soms, as reported by the State Traffic Safety Department (ГУОБДД). If a vehicle or an individual has fines totaling more than the specified amount, this will result in the mandatory impoundment of the vehicle. ГУОБДД strongly recommends that all traffic rule violators pay their fines on time. Drivers who pay their fines within a month of receiving them can expect a 70% discount. The department also

19.11.2025, 09:36
Local news

Can You Make It Before the New Year? How Much Does Driving School Cost and Are There Available Spots?

In Kyrgyzstan, there is a significant increase in interest in learning at driving schools. According to Kaktus.media, most citizens are eager to complete their courses by the end of the current year, as per the new requirements, training for obtaining a driver's license will now take at least 14 months. Most driving schools report that enrollment is closed, and there are virtually no available spots until the New Year. However, one school has announced the start of group classes on

19.11.2025, 09:34
Local news

The ANO "Eurasia" opens the first Eurasian Center for the Russian Language and Culture in Bishkek

On November 23, Bishkek will host the grand opening of the first Eurasian Center for the Russian Language and Culture in Kyrgyzstan. This unique multifunctional venue is designed to promote the Russian language, facilitate cultural exchange, and train specialists. The Center will operate based on the Association for the Support of the Russian Language, established with the support of the Autonomous Non-Profit Organization "Eurasia". Within the framework of this new venue, educational

19.11.2025, 09:22
In Bishkek, the nightclub "Groove" has been temporarily closed.
Local news / Exclusive

In Bishkek, the nightclub "Groove" has been temporarily closed.

The night club "Groove" in Bishkek has temporarily suspended its operations due to violations of public order. This was announced in a statement by the press service of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic (GKNB KR). According to the state committee, this decision was made against the backdrop of ongoing complaints from citizens regarding violations of public order, as well as to ensure safety.

19.11.2025, 09:13
The Ministry of Defense is improving pre-conscription training for youth
Local news / Exclusive

The Ministry of Defense is improving pre-conscription training for youth

The meeting at the Ministry of Defense of Kyrgyzstan discussed measures to improve pre-conscription training for youth. The Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Kyrgyz Republic and the First Deputy Minister of Defense, Tariel Otonbaev, participated in the meeting. Members of the working group, instructors of the "Pre-conscription Training" course, and relevant specialists attended the event, where they reviewed current aspects of teaching, existing methodologies, as

19.11.2025, 09:03
Local news

In Osh Region, nearly 2 hectares of land will be transferred for the construction of the border outpost "Ak-Buura"

The Cabinet of Ministers has decided to reclassify 1.92 hectares of agricultural land into the category of land designated for industry and defense. This resolution, numbered 705, was signed by the Chairman of the Cabinet, Adylbek Kasymaliev. On this site, it is planned to construct the border outpost "Ak-Buura," which will be located within the boundaries of the rural area of Manas in the Kara-Suu district of the Osh region.

19.11.2025, 08:46
Local news

In Bishkek, asphalt is being laid on Chuy Avenue, promised to open by December 1st

On Chuy Avenue in Bishkek, from Abdrahmanov Street to Shopokov Street, asphalt paving has begun as part of the Old Bishkek project, which was initiated by the previous mayor, Nariman Tuleev. The work started in May, when traffic in this area was completely closed, leading to significant congestion and causing inconvenience for both local residents and tourists.

19.11.2025, 08:35
"Cracks and Potholes So Bad That It's Impossible to Walk." Complaints About the Road and Authorities' Response
Local news

"Cracks and Potholes So Bad That It's Impossible to Walk." Complaints About the Road and Authorities' Response

In the Call Center Kaktus.media, a woman appealed to the city administration to pay attention to the need for road repairs at the intersection of Ibraimov and Kurenkiev streets. Complaints from local residents. “We ask to restore the road surface at the intersection of Ibraimov and Kurenkiev streets. This is a very busy intersection with a lot of traffic from both cars and pedestrians. The potholes on the road are impossible to avoid, and drivers are forced to maneuver as best they can. This

19.11.2025, 08:09
Local news

Two Unknown Works by Bach Found in Leipzig

In the 1990s, researchers stumbled upon manuscripts of two organ pieces written by Johann Sebastian Bach, but it is only now that their authorship has been definitively established. This was reported by Meduza. Peter Wollny, who conducted the analysis, found that copies of these works were created by Salomon Günther Jon, a student of Bach. Specialists from the Bach Archive in Leipzig claim that the probability of these works belonging to the composer is 99.9%.

18.11.2025, 23:41
Local news

Why Foreign Students Are Required to Purchase Health Insurance Policies. Explanation from the Deputy Chairman of the FOMS

In Kyrgyzstan, a significant number of foreign students are enrolled, who have private health insurance policies. These policies allow them to receive services both in outpatient and inpatient settings, as well as to call private ambulances and purchase medications at pharmacies. Each visit is monitored by a medical coordinator from the insurance company. However, as it became known from one of the private insurance organizations, foreign students are now required to purchase a compulsory

18.11.2025, 22:46
Local news

Kyrgyzstan is younger than others, but ages faster. A study

Kyrgyzstan is entering a new demographic era, officially becoming an aging society. This phenomenon is not a prediction but a real necessity for revising the country's social, medical, and economic policies. An analysis titled "Aging Population of the Kyrgyz Republic: Challenges and Prospects" emphasizes this relevance. Comparison with Other CountriesAccording to the 2022 census data, for the first time, the share of citizens over 60 years old has exceeded 10%. If such rates

18.11.2025, 22:08
Local news

Professor: Mortality from heart diseases in Kyrgyzstan is several times higher than official data

Professor Talant Sooronbaev, head of the National Center for Cardiology and Therapy named after Academician Mirrakhimov, stated on the air of the program "Ala-Too 24" that the actual mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases significantly exceed official data. According to the professor, the number of patients with cardiovascular diseases is constantly increasing, which raises serious concerns. Kyrgyzstan ranks among the top in the Eurasian region for mortality rates from these

18.11.2025, 22:07
Local news

Why was the Kaktus.media website down for several hours?

On November 18, users in Kyrgyzstan and around the world experienced disruptions in internet access and various online services, including the site Kaktus.media. Many subscribers complained about issues accessing different services. Affected platforms included Spotify, X, and Epic Games. According to the Cloudflare status page, scheduled maintenance was taking place at several of the company's data centers in the USA and other countries, which led to some traffic being redirected through

18.11.2025, 21:56
Local news

Make it Before the New Year. There Are Almost No Available Spots Left in Driving Schools

In recent days, there has been a significant increase in interest in training at driving schools in Kyrgyzstan. Citizens are eager to complete their courses by the end of the year, as new requirements are being discussed, which state that training for obtaining a driver's license will last at least 14 months. According to information received from Kaktus.media, there are practically no available spots left in many driving schools, and only a few institutions are offering enrollments at the

18.11.2025, 21:54
Parents are increasingly turning to ChatGPT for parenting advice - scientists
Local news

Parents are increasingly turning to ChatGPT for parenting advice - scientists

According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology, more and more parents are turning to ChatGPT for parenting advice. The research conducted by a group of specialists from the USA shows that adults are using the capabilities of artificial intelligence to address children's behavioral issues and seek medical advice. Many trust chatbots more than real professionals.

18.11.2025, 21:46
A new bridge on Shukurova Street has been opened for vehicle traffic in Bishkek
Local news

A new bridge on Shukurova Street has been opened for vehicle traffic in Bishkek

A new bridge has been opened in Bishkek, connecting Shukurov Street (formerly Kropotkin) and Mederov Street across the YUBCHK. This information was announced by the local mayor's office. According to them, the construction of a modern and safe bridge took only three months, and its completion has been a long-awaited event for local residents.

18.11.2025, 21:42
"Such potholes and bumps that it's impossible to pass." Complaints about the road
Local news

"Such potholes and bumps that it's impossible to pass." Complaints about the road

A complaint was received at the Call Center of Kaktus.media from a local resident who urged the city administration to pay attention to the need for road repairs at the intersection of Ibraimov and Kureneev streets. Complaints from residents. She emphasized: "We urgently request that the road at this busy intersection be repaired, where there are constantly many cars and pedestrians. The potholes are so deep that drivers have to maneuver to avoid them. This road is the only way for

18.11.2025, 21:20
Local news

In the "Gifts-Darmek" app, you can report inflated prices on medications

The mobile application "Dary-Darmek" provides users with the ability to report inflated prices on medications. This was announced by Nuradin Kanataev, head of the information and technical support department of the drug and medical device department, during a broadcast on "Birinchi Radio." Kanataev noted that the application is designed to facilitate the search and verification of legally imported drugs costing over 100 soms. However, it should be taken into account that it

18.11.2025, 20:54
Local news

Law enforcement temporarily suspended the operation of one of Bishkek's nightclubs

In Bishkek, employees of the State Committee for National Security (GKNB) and the Internal Affairs Department of the Pervomaisky District made the decision to temporarily close the Groove nightclub, located in the Pervomaisky District of the capital. This decision was a result of regular violations of public order and numerous complaints from local residents. According to information from law enforcement agencies, residents of the area have repeatedly reported loud noises at night, offenses

18.11.2025, 20:45
Residents of Bishkek are discharging domestic wastewater, clogging the collectors. Cleaning is being conducted.
Local news

Residents of Bishkek are discharging domestic wastewater, clogging the collectors. Cleaning is being conducted.

Photo by the press service of the mayor's office In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, work continues on the cleaning of collector-drainage networks (CDN). According to the press service of the mayor's office, this activity is carried out both manually and using specialized equipment. The main reason for the problems with clogging of the collectors is the illegal connection of household wastewater by local residents. Among the main difficulties faced by the municipal enterprise

18.11.2025, 20:30
Local news / Cultural news

The Alykul Osmonov Museum in Bishkek is proposed to be transferred to state ownership

In Bishkek, the city administration presented a draft resolution regarding the gratuitous transfer of the Alykul Osmonov Museum and the associated land plot into state ownership. The facility is located at: Sokuluksky Lane, 10. This initiative arose from requests from the Culture Department of the city administration dated September 12, 2025, as well as from the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy, which sent its letter on July 9, 2025.

18.11.2025, 19:56
Local news

The "Eurasia" Park Takes on the Mission of Supporting People with Disabilities

The "Eurasia" Park is initiating a large-scale social program aimed at supporting people with disabilities and creating an inclusive environment. As part of this program, a specialized tour was held, designed with the needs of people with various disabilities in mind. Participants had the opportunity to stroll along the picturesque routes of the park under the guidance of experienced guides. Creative workshops in painting and sculpting were organized for them, as well as a vibrant

18.11.2025, 19:50
A raid on beggars was conducted in the city of Osh
Local news

A raid on beggars was conducted in the city of Osh

In the Osh region, law enforcement officers, together with representatives of social services and educational institutions, implemented a preventive campaign called "Beggar." This information was provided by the press service of the regional Department of Internal Affairs. The main objective of this campaign was to identify both adults and children engaged in begging. Special attention is given to cases where minors are forced to beg by their parents or relatives. If genuinely needy

18.11.2025, 19:44
Local news

The boundaries of the buffer zone of Mount Suleiman-Too in Osh want to be changed and improved.

In Osh, Mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev, along with members of the working group responsible for the improvement of Mount Suleiman-Too, conducted an inspection of the buffer zone of this sacred landmark. The press service of the mayor's office of the southern capital reports on the inspection. The working group included specialists from the state enterprise "Scientific Research Project Institute 'Kyrgyzrestoration'", archaeologists, and other experts. They discussed possible

18.11.2025, 19:18
Textbooks "Natural Sciences" printed for second grades
Local news

Textbooks "Natural Sciences" printed for second grades

The Ministry of Education has announced the completion of printing textbooks on "Natural Sciences" for second-grade students. According to the department, the educational and methodological complexes were accepted at the "Uchkun" printing house.

18.11.2025, 18:58
Local news / Exclusive

In the rural district of Kadyra Ake, a municipal fuel base for the sale of coal has been opened.

In the Ak-Suu district of the Issyk-Kul region, in the rural area of Kydyr-Ake, the sale of coal from the Karakete deposit has started at a price of 7,200 soms per ton. According to data obtained from various sources, in other parts of the district, a ton of Karakete coal costs 10,500 soms. "We have signed an agreement with local residents to establish the supply of coal from Karakete and make it accessible to the population. So far, 80 families have purchased coal within two days.

18.11.2025, 18:39
Local news / Exclusive

The area near the stele at the junction of the borders of 3 countries, which was inaugurated by Sadyr Japarov, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Emomali Rahmon, is being improved.

In the area where the borders of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan intersect, work is underway to improve the territory around the stele that symbolizes the unification of the three countries. The stele is located in Kyrgyzstan, in the Koshmolo area of the Tört-Gül ayil district, situated in the Batken region.

18.11.2025, 18:37
A Statue of Bridget Jones Has Been Unveiled in London. Renée Zellweger Attended the Opening
Local news

A Statue of Bridget Jones Has Been Unveiled in London. Renée Zellweger Attended the Opening

On Leicester Square, on November 17, a bronze statue of Bridget Jones, the famous heroine of Helen Fielding's books, was ceremoniously unveiled in London. According to BBC News, the statue was installed on the movie alley Scenes in the Square, which already features other statues of film characters. Photo: Millie Turner / Invision / AP / Scanpix / LETA. The opening ceremony was attended by Renée Zellweger, who played the role of Bridget Jones in the films. The actress described the statue

18.11.2025, 18:26
Local news / Exclusive

In the city of Manas, the streets where new asphalt has been laid were announced.

In the third quarter of this year, road works have been completed on 23 streets in Manas, where gravel has been laid over an area of 40,600 square meters. Asphalt pavement has been installed on 17 streets with a total length of 8,777 meters. Municipal sources report that 6,844 meters of sidewalks have also been asphalted, and pothole repairs have been carried out over an area of 10,552 m².

18.11.2025, 18:18
Judges in the USA Sound the Alarm: AI Fakes Evidence
Local news

Judges in the USA Sound the Alarm: AI Fakes Evidence

Judges in the USA are expressing serious concern about the use of artificial intelligence to create evidence in court cases. This could negatively impact trust in the justice system, as reported by NBC citing official sources. In one recent court case, a video was discovered that allegedly demonstrated a witness's testimony. However, it later turned out that this video was created using AI technologies. The court dismissed the case, recognizing the video as a forgery despite its outward

18.11.2025, 18:05
Local news

In which cases does an insured patient pay for hospitalization, and in which cases do they not?

The FOMS explained in which situations insured citizens can receive free hospitalization in state medical institutions, and in which cases they will have to pay for services. There are two main cases: If the patient goes to the hospital on their own and does not have a referral from a family doctor. In this case, all medical services, including consultations, tests, examinations, and procedures, are paid for according to established rates. This does not apply to emergency care. If

18.11.2025, 18:05
Local news

The state program on biodiversity until 2040 was presented in Kyrgyzstan

Today in Bishkek, the State Program for the Conservation of Biological Diversity until 2040 was presented, as reported by the press service of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision. The document, better known as the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity Conservation (NBSAP), is the foundational strategic plan of the country in the field of biodiversity protection and sustainable ecosystem management.

18.11.2025, 18:02
A new building for architects will be constructed in Tokmok
Local news / Exclusive

A new building for architects will be constructed in Tokmok

During his working trip to the Chuy region, the Minister of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services of the Kyrgyz Republic, Nurdin Oruntaev, held a meeting with representatives of the urban planning and architecture department of Tokmok. The minister familiarized himself with the conditions in which the department's employees work, who are currently forced to rent space on the second floor of a four-story building, as they do not have their own office. At the

18.11.2025, 17:46
Local news

The World in Online Mode: Three Quarters of the Planet's Residents Have Internet Access

According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), over 240 million people gained access to the Global Network in the past year, resulting in approximately 6 billion residents of our planet actively using the internet — this accounts for three-quarters of the entire population of Earth. This information is reported by the UN News Service. Despite this growth, 2.2 billion people still lack access to digital technologies, indicating significant challenges related to

18.11.2025, 17:41
Local news

Every year, medications worth 30 billion soms are imported into Kyrgyzstan

According to Nuradin Kanataev, who heads the information and technical support department of the pharmaceutical and medical devices department, Kyrgyzstan is significantly dependent on the import of medications. Currently, 97% of all medicines come from abroad, while local producers meet only 3% of market needs. He reported this on the air of "Birinchi Radio". Every year, medications worth about 30 billion soms are imported into the country. Forecasts suggest that this figure will

18.11.2025, 17:38