President Mirziyoyev approved amendments to laws protecting squares, parks, alleys and recreation areas, as well as preventing the construction of buildings and structures in these areas Monday, the press service of the Ministry of Justice said.
The amendments stipulate that privatization or other alienation of state-owned lands used for cultural, domestic needs and recreation of the public shall be prohibited.
They have also prohibited to build buildings and structures on these lands, expand existing buildings on them or reduce the territory of such lands.
The same amendments classify botanical gardens as protected natural areas, and any activity that threatens the flora is prohibited in them, while violating shall be punished with a fine of 300 to 360 BCUs or correctional labor from 2 to 3 years or imprisonment from 5 to 7 years.
During the debate in the Senate, it was reported that in 184 parks of Uzbekistan, green zones and forests were reduced, 944 buildings and structures were built (construction area of 431.6 thousand sq. m or 43.16 hectares). Also, 91 illegal buildings (7600 sq. m / 0.76 hectares) have been erected illegally in 18 parks, while in 98 parks 1248 illegal amusement rides were installed.
