Closure of Bishkek's 'Madina' market postponed indefinitely

The planned closure of Bishkek's 'Madina' market has been indefinitely postponed, according to a statement from the mayor's office. The market was initially slated for closure on August 1 to undergo reconstruction as part of urban development and modernization efforts.

Mayor Aybek Dzhunushaliyev has also dissolved the conciliation commission that was formed to address the concerns of the market's entrepreneurs and propose solutions. New timelines for the market's closure or reconstruction have not yet been announced.

This postponement comes amid strong opposition from the market's traders. They were offered the option to purchase commercial spaces at the newly built 'Ala-Too' market, located adjacent to 'Madina'. However, traders deem the proposed terms unacceptable, with costs for a trading spot reportedly reaching up to $200,000 and monthly rent between $150 and $200,000 Kyrgyz soms.

Traders have voiced their disagreement with the relocation, highlighting the financial burden and expressing that the conditions are not feasible for their businesses. The situation remains unresolved as negotiations continue.