Kyrgyzstan MP: Trolleybus Removal Failed to Clean Bishkek's Air

Eliminating Bishkek's trolleybus system has failed to deliver on its promise of cleaner air, according to a member of the Kyrgyz parliament. "We eliminated the trolleybuses, and what, has the sky in Bishkek become clean? Have we defeated smog? No, of course, this has not happened," said Gulya Kozhokulova, a deputy in the Jogorku Kenesh committee on international affairs, defense, security, and migration.

Kozhokulova argued that trolleybuses are the most environmentally friendly and accessible form of public transport, with a long operational lifespan. She contrasted Bishkek's experience with Osh, where she noted trolleybuses are profitable, while in the capital, they were deemed unprofitable. This decision, she stated, has not led to the desired environmental improvements.

Responding to the criticism, Ramis Aliev, deputy head of the Bishkek mayor's office, stated that the trolleybuses were removed as part of the "Clean Sky" project, which aims to eliminate overhead wires. He confirmed that this project has been implemented on eight streets in Bishkek, with ongoing work in this direction. However, Kozhokulova pointed out that implementation on only eight streets over three years represents a very small percentage of the city.

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We eliminated the trolleybuses, and what, has the sky in Bishkek become clean? Have we defeated smog? No, of course, this has not happened.