Uzbekistan aimed to plant 200 mn trees in 2024 according to a decree by the Cabinet of Ministers on March 7, 2024. Yet by the end of spring, the country had already planted 125 mn, surpassing the goal by 110.5%, the Senate of Oliy Majlis reported.
In a recent session held on May 31, the Senate's Committee on the Development of the Aral Bay Region and Ecology analyzed the implementation of the 'Yashil Makon' national project. The project, aimed at enhancing greenery through the planting and maintenance of trees, "green parks," and "green belts," came under scrutiny as the committee reviewed the progress and identified areas of improvement.
Key points discussed during the meeting included an overview of the initiatives undertaken within the project framework. Efforts were made in the spring season of this year, with a focus on tree planting and care.
The meeting also highlighted the comprehensive approach adopted, with 914 practical seminars conducted to educate participants on proper planting techniques, care, watering, and disease and pest management. Additionally, significant infrastructure improvements were noted, including the installation of 253 water discharge wells and 2,906 kilometers of irrigation systems to support seedling growth. Moreover, 991 special equipment units were deployed in areas lacking natural irrigation sources.
However, despite these commendable efforts, the committee acknowledged several shortcomings in the project's execution. Concerns were raised regarding the planting of over 600,000 saplings in locations without adequate irrigation systems during the spring season. Insufficient attention was also drawn to post-planting care, watering, and disease prevention measures.
Furthermore, discrepancies were noted in the financing of disease and pest control measures, as outlined in the presidential decree No. PF-199 of November 23, 2023. The committee emphasized the need for a resolution on this matter to ensure effective implementation.
Another area of concern highlighted was the failure to replace dried-up trees from previous seasons promptly. The practice of pruning and replacing dead trees with new saplings was found lacking, indicating a need for better maintenance strategies.
In response to these challenges, the committee adopted a resolution outlining recommendations for improvement. Key suggestions included the timely and accurate reporting of planted seedlings on the "Yashilmakon.eco" electronic platform and the adoption of region-specific tree species based on climate and soil conditions. Special emphasis was placed on establishing "green belts" around industrial zones and waste landfills to mitigate environmental impact.
Additionally, local Councils of People's Deputies were urged to continue strict parliamentary and public oversight of the project's implementation, with a mandate to review reports from regional ecology and environmental protection departments regularly.
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