The President of Uzbekistan has signed a decree on developing a rapid response system for a sharp deterioration in air quality. By the end of 2026, the country will legislate an action plan that includes both protective measures for the population and restrictions for businesses, Tashkent Today reported.
The planned measures include:
• Alerts: prompt SMS messaging and publication of risk levels on digital platforms when dangerous levels are reached.
• Social restrictions: temporary suspension of outdoor activities, transfer of civil servants to remote work, and restrictions on mass events.
• Industrial controls: mandatory emission reductions at factories, a ban on the burning of fuel oil (except in extremely low temperatures), and suspension of construction projects.
• Urban environment: traffic restrictions, mandatory road watering, and the use of fountains to suppress dust.
In parallel, by November 2026, the Ministry of Health will conduct a scientific study on the impact of smog on the increase in cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases to develop targeted recommendations for at-risk groups.
