Kyrgyzstan forestry restricts valley access to protect meadows

The local forestry department in Kyrgyzstan's Jetı-Oguz district has implemented restrictions on vehicle, motorcycle, and ATV access to the scenic Kok-Jayyk valley. The primary reason cited for this decision is the urgent need to protect the valley's fragile meadows from damage caused by off-road driving.

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The decision is primarily related to protecting the meadows from damage.

According to the forestry department, visitors have increasingly been straying from established roads, driving directly onto the green pastures. This practice, along with the use of off-road motorcycles and ATVs, has inflicted significant harm on the vegetation. The department asserts that since the implementation of these movement restrictions, the meadows have begun to show signs of recovery.

Despite the limitations on vehicular traffic, Kok-Jayyk remains accessible to tourists who choose to enter on foot. For those arriving by car, a dedicated parking area capable of accommodating approximately 200 vehicles has been set up. The forestry service also utilizes two motor scooters and a UAZ vehicle for transporting luggage for tourists and lessees, and provides assistance to elderly individuals and those with disabilities.

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tourists have to leave their cars about three kilometers away from the gorge and walk further.

Public figure Syymyk Japykeev had previously criticized the new regulations, arguing that requiring tourists to park their vehicles about three kilometers away and walk the rest of the distance could negatively impact the local tourism business. However, the forestry department reports no complaints or conflicts from tourists or lessees regarding the new order.

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such an order can negatively affect the local tourism business.