Uzbekistan plans to adopt a dedicated law regulating the status of its capital, following instructions issued by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during a meeting in Tashkent reviewing current results and outlining priorities for 2026. The proposed legislation is expected to establish the legal, economic, and organizational framework governing the capital’s development and administration.
The initiative reflects broader efforts to introduce tailored governance mechanisms for Tashkent, which the president described as the country’s political, administrative, economic, and cultural center. Mirziyoyev stressed that the capital requires distinct approaches to management, development, and protection.
As part of infrastructure planning, a master plan for Tashkent’s drainage system has been developed, with construction scheduled to begin next year. The project includes the construction of 150 km of closed drainage networks, repairs to 197 km of canals and collectors, and the creation of 63 km of new canals aimed at improving urban climate conditions. In addition, 17 rainwater collection facilities will be built, with the collected water used to irrigate trees and green areas.
In the governance sphere, proposals include granting the Tashkent City Kengash the authority to distribute 20% of surplus revenues returned to the local budget among districts. City and district hokims (mayors), subject to approval by local kengashes, would also be allowed to place available funds on deposit.
President Mirziyoyev further instructed authorities to draft and adopt the law “On the Status of the Capital of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” which will formally define Tashkent’s role and administrative structure. Additionally, starting in 2026, the capital is expected to pilot a new governance model for the “mahalla seven” system, bringing it fully under the authority of the Tashkent city hokimiyat (city administration).
Tashkent is set to extend its network of dedicated bus lanes as part of wider efforts to upgrade the capital’s transport system and reduce traffic congestion. A presidential decree outlines major road reconstruction projects through 2029, supported by a $271 mn loan from the Bank of China. The project implementation is divided into 4 stages and will be carried out in partnership with China Construction Fifth Engineering Division.
The presidential decree also aims to improve overall mobility, with plans by 2030 to add 150,000 parking spaces, expand the metro to 103 km, and enhance pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
