Gross violations of the moratorium and the reaction of the responsible authorities. Despite the moratorium on the cutting down of valuable tree species, introduced by presidential decree of October 30, 2019, and the explanatory work of the State Committee for Ecology departments, cases of illegal cutting of trees are still observed on the ground. On December 23, 2019, the helpline of the Tashkent City Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection ((71) 2777543) received an appeal regarding the cutting of trees in the Uchtepa district (13th block, between houses 5, 6, 7 and 8). Chairman of the State Committee for Ecology Bakhrom Kuchkarov, Deputy Chairman Uktam Utaev, specialists from the Main Directorate of Biodiversity and Protected Natural Areas, and inspectors from the city administration went to the site to study this situation. During the study, it was established that as a result of illegal actions, three ash maples, one ash tree, and one mulberry tree were cut down. Thus, a gross violation of the moratorium was recorded. In accordance with Article 37 of the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the protection and use of flora” (as amended) and Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 43 dated January 17, 2019, the total damage caused to flora was established in the amount of 98 million 120 thousand soums. Considering that there are signs of a crime, materials on this offense have been prepared for transfer to law enforcement agencies. On the same day, December 23, the helpline of the Tashkent City Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection received another request – about the cutting of trees in the Shaykhantakhur district on Labzak Street, in front of house 31. Based on the results of studying the situation, it was established that as a result of illegal actions, 6 sophoras and 2 plane trees were cut down to the point of stopping their growth. In this case, a gross violation of the above-mentioned documents was also recorded. The total damage caused to flora amounted to 51 million 401.5 thousand soums. Materials are being prepared for submission to the administrative court. The State Committee for Ecology expresses gratitude to caring citizens for their active cooperation and concern for the environment. And we remind you once again: if you witness the cutting of trees or other violations of environmental legislation, immediately call the helplines of the State Committee for Ecology of the Republic of Uzbekistan: (71) 2362666, (71) 2070770, ext. 5012#, 1107#.
Gross violations of the moratorium and the reaction of the responsible authorities.
