Tashkent to clear bus stops of commercial units for urban infrastructure upgrade

The initiative is being coordinated by the Road Traffic Management Center (RTMC), which recently conducted an extensive audit of the city's transport infrastructure. Specialists from the center inspected several sections of the capital’s streets, totaling 100 km in length, along with 190 large and small intersections. During this process, over 360 stopping points were inventoried.

Audit reveals widespread unauthorized commercial activity

The findings of the RTMC audit highlighted a significant gap between current infrastructure and intended safety standards. In 110 of the audited locations, commercial shops were found occupying the space designated for bus stops.

Crucially, in 61 of these cases, the owners were unable to provide any legal documentation confirming their right to own or utilize the territory. The city administration has stated that it will conduct a legal assessment of these unauthorized points and take subsequent measures for their removal.

Compensation and global standards

For entrepreneurs who do possess valid legal documentation, a compensation mechanism has been established. These business owners will be allocated alternative plots of land to relocate their trading points.

City officials noted that modern international urban design typically excludes commercial spaces from the immediate boundaries of bus stops. By clearing these areas, the administration aims to:

• Ensure safe waiting conditions for passengers.
• Create an inclusive environment for all citizens.
• Improve the visibility and accessibility of public transport.

Part of the "Intensive 90 Days" transport initiative

The removal of these outlets is a key component of the "Intensive 90 Days" program in the road and transport sector, which the capital’s administration launched on 28 February.

Beyond the reorganization of roadside retail, the 90-day plan includes the regulation and control of advertising structures, the modernization of traffic lights, and the replacement of outdated bus stop complexes. These measures follow a recent visit by Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration, to the RTMC, where she emphasized the need for systemic improvements to reduce traffic congestion and enhance the quality of public transport in Tashkent.