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๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Kyrgyzstan /Culture & Society

Bishkek's 'monument to the mayor' grows as trash goes uncollected

From 24.kg · () Russian

Translated from Russian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Bishkek authorities are preparing for international events while a central street's garbage collection is neglected.
  • Residents report that the municipal enterprise 'Tazalyk' has not collected trash for three days, leading to overflowing bins and a growing waste pile.
  • Locals have sarcastically dubbed the unsanitary situation a 'monument to the mayor,' highlighting the contrast with the city's efforts to appear presentable for upcoming international gatherings.

While Bishkek officials focus on preparing the capital for major international events like the SCO summit and World Nomad Games, a less-than-picturesque scene is unfolding in the city center. On Lev Tolstoy Street, garbage has been piling up for three days, with overflowing bins and a growing mountain of waste extending beyond the designated area. Residents claim the municipal enterprise 'Tazalyk' has failed to collect the trash.

The situation has become so dire that using the containers is nearly impossible. In a display of dark humor, locals have begun referring to the expanding dump as a "monument to the mayor." This ironic development occurs as city authorities are reportedly demanding that building facades and pedestrian crossings be tidied up to ensure a good impression during the international events.

The municipal enterprise 'Tazalyk' simply does not come for the trash.

โ€” local residentsdescribing the lack of municipal services on Lev Tolstoy Street.

The unsanitary installation, created over three days from household waste, stands in stark contrast to the city's efforts to present a polished image. There is a hope that 'Tazalyk' will address the issue on Lev Tolstoy Street before the makeshift dump becomes an unintended tourist attraction.

monument to the mayor

โ€” local residentssarcastically naming the growing garbage dump.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by 24.kg in Russian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.