Uzbekistan introduces fines for construction-related air pollution

On March 3, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a law establishing liability for air pollution by construction companies.
 
The document passed its first reading in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis in December 2024 and was approved by the Senate in February. The Administrative Responsibility Code now includes fines for failing to comply with air protection requirements.

The fine will apply to developers’ officials who exceed the permissible dust emission limits at construction sites larger than 500 square meters. The initial violation will result in a fine of 10 BCU (3.75 million UZS).

If the violation is repeated within a year, the fine will increase fivefold — up to 50 BCU (18.75 million UZS). The law will come into effect three months after its publication.

During discussions in the Legislative Chamber, it was noted that violations will be detected by the State Environmental Control Inspectorate using special devices known as aspirators. Inspectors will also check whether construction sites have water sprayers to suppress dust.

In September, Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved a dust storm mitigation program until 2030. Under this initiative, automated air monitoring stations and public information boards will be installed across the capital to display real-time air pollution levels.