Bishkek residents decry 'barbaric' undermining and root cutting of city trees

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – A wave of public outcry has emerged in Bishkek over what residents describe as the "barbaric" treatment of the city's trees. Citizens have reported extensive damage to trees along major thoroughfares, including Abdrakhmanov Street and Manas Avenue, where roots have been severely undermined and cut. This destructive practice, which has left many trees leaning and vulnerable to falling, is believed by locals to be associated with the laying of underground cables. The damage is particularly concerning given Bishkek's already critical shortage of green spaces. A concerned citizen, quoted by 24.kg, expressed outrage, stating, "There is critically little greenery in Bishkek already, and such work leads to the destruction of the remaining trees." The lack of proper irrigation in the affected areas further exacerbates the trees' poor condition. This incident highlights a perceived disregard for urban greenery and raises questions about the methods employed for infrastructure development in the Kyrgyz capital. Local media outlets like 24.kg are amplifying these concerns, urging authorities to adopt more sustainable and less destructive approaches to urban development that prioritize the preservation of the city's vital, yet scarce, natural assets.

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I walked from Kievskaya Street to Moskovskaya and everywhere the same picture — the roots of the trees have been cut. Many plantings are growing at an angle and in strong winds it is not excluded that they may fall onto the roadway.