Tashkent region plans to expand its public transport fleet to more than 230 buses and launch 14 new routes as Uzbekistan accelerates transport reforms aimed at reducing congestion and improving commuter mobility around the capital.
The plans were outlined by Tashkent regional governor Zoyir (Zoir) Mirzayev following a presentation on public transport development reviewed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on May 7.
The presentation focused on accelerating transport modernization projects across the country, including proposals to introduce a gross-contract transport system within a 12-kilometer radius surrounding Tashkent city.
According to Mirzayev, a large share of residents commuting daily between the region and the capital currently rely on private cars, minibuses and Damas vehicles.
“More than 14,000 Damas vehicles contribute to traffic congestion, while mechanisms for controlling service quality and tariffs remain difficult,” the regional governor said.
He noted that the introduction of an agglomeration transport system would encourage passengers to shift toward safer and more regulated public transportation.
Authorities also announced that import-related utilisztion fee incentives for foreign transport vehicles, which were nearing expiration, will now be extended for another two years under instructions from the president.
Mirzayev said the extension would allow the region to increase planned bus imports from 136 vehicles to more than 230 by the end of the year.
The program additionally предусматривает the launch of 14 new bus routes across the region.
Officials said artificial intelligence technologies will be used to analyse passenger demand and help design new transport routes.
New bus services are expected to expand deeper into districts across Tashkent region, including G‘ishtko‘prik (Gishtkuprik), Zangiata and Tashkent district areas.
According to regional authorities, the number of buses operating in Tashkent region has already reached 418, while the number of routes has doubled in recent years.
Over the next two years, Uzbekistan also plans to complete major transport and infrastructure projects based on master plans developed for large cities and Tashkent city.
