Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Tashkent plans to establish small, multi-layered microforests in mahallas, between apartment buildings, and on school and kindergarten grounds under a decision adopted by Tashkent Mayor Shavkat Umurzakov on 19 October. The decision also introduces restrictions on the use of land designated for green spaces, requires district-level greening programmes and provides for a digital tree inventory system.
Microforests will primarily be created in areas where there is insufficient vacant land for conventional greening. Sites measuring between 200 and 1,000 square metres will feature dense, multi-layered planting, with at least two tree and shrub seedlings per square metre.
Where land cannot be allocated for green spaces or sites are covered with asphalt or concrete, small public gardens will be established instead. These will use large containers to accommodate trees and shrubs.
Responsibility for implementing the measures will be shared among city institutions and local communities. District administrations and sponsors will arrange for the installation of containers, while the Forestry Agency will supply quality planting material. Mahallas will organise planting and subsequent maintenance with residents' participation. Each garden will also have designated personnel responsible for watering, protecting the containers and maintaining the greenery.
Green spaces to be protected from construction
Under the decision, land designated for green gardens may be used exclusively for that purpose. It cannot be transferred into the ownership of individuals or legal entities, built upon, used for structures or allocated to other activities. Restricting public access to these areas is also prohibited.
Green gardens established on the initiative of citizens and organisations must be inventoried and included in a register.
From 1 January 2027, the Yashil Lot (Green Lot) system will allow individuals and companies to obtain land under contractual arrangements for the creation of green gardens. District administrations, together with cadastral and environmental authorities, will identify suitable plots, arrange for notices to be published and organise the conclusion of contracts.
Districts to develop greening programmes
District-level green programmes must be prepared in Tashkent by 1 November 2026. From 2027, the programmes are to be developed annually by 1 March.
They must include specific projects to establish green gardens, create shaded pedestrian streets and lakes, develop irrigation systems using rainwater, meltwater and wastewater, maintain trees and establish waste collection points.
Each project will have defined funding, implementation deadlines, responsible parties and expected results. The programmes will be approved by district Councils of People's Deputies.
In Yangihayot district, implementation of the green programme must begin within three months. Funding will come from the State Target Fund for Addressing Nationwide Environmental Problems.
By the end of 2026, banners and electronic information boards are also planned at mahalla entrances. They will provide information on the benefits of greening and environmental indicators for the respective areas.
Digital tree inventory and autumn planting
The 2027–2036 programme provides for the development of a Tree Balance module on the Yashil Makon platform. The system is scheduled to be introduced by January 2028 and will record each tree's location, species, age and condition, its watering source, and information about those responsible for its maintenance.
The autumn tree and shrub planting season in the capital will begin on 10 November 2026. Before that date, city services have been instructed to prepare planting sites, inspect and repair irrigation systems, treat the soil and carry out other necessary agricultural work.
Additional measures will be implemented as part of a two-month citywide clean-up campaign launched on 1 October. Authorities are required to clear rubbish from irrigation ditches, canals, streets, public spaces and areas around apartment buildings, as well as prepare drainage systems for seasonal rainfall.
Composting and mulching are also planned at botanical and dendrological gardens, forestry facilities and major green spaces. Each district of the capital must be equipped with at least one branch shredder.