Illegal logging in Uzbekistan will soon be detected using space technologies, the Ministry of Justice announced. A presidential decree has introduced measures to expand the use of aerospace data across several economic sectors, with a particular focus on environmental protection and agriculture.
Under the decree, from 2026, space monitoring will be deployed across the republic to detect illegal tree cutting. The system will rely on satellite imagery and advanced aerospace technologies to identify violations and strengthen environmental surveillance.
The initiative will also be tested in other sectors:
- Energy: The Ministry of Energy will use space monitoring in the Boka district of the Tashkent region to detect faults in high-voltage power transmission networks by August 1, 2026. In addition, by October 1, 2026, potential areas in the Surkhandarya region suitable for solar panel installation will be identified to boost renewable energy.
- Transport: The Ministry of Transport will introduce aerospace monitoring of the Tashkent–Angren railway to enable real-time control of infrastructure conditions by October 1, 2026.
To reinforce environmental safety, the Prosecutor General's Office has signed a memorandum of cooperation with relevant agencies. The agreement focuses on the joint use of aerospace technologies for inspections, pre-investigation inquiries, and transparent monitoring through the State Space Monitoring System.
The memorandum establishes a systematic exchange of information between institutions to assess environmental risks, uncover violations, and strengthen preventive measures.
Authorities emphasize that the new monitoring system will improve data accuracy, ensure transparency, and provide Uzbekistan with stronger tools to combat illegal logging and other environmental challenges.
