The Cabinet of Ministers has introduced restrictions on the entry of motorised vehicles into specially protected areas

The Cabinet of Ministers has introduced restrictions on the entry and movement of motorised vehicles in certain parts of the country.

According to the decree, the restrictions will apply to specially protected natural areas, within park and beach zones, as well as on pastures.

The decision was taken against a backdrop of growing attention to issues of environmental conservation and the protection of natural areas. In recent years, concerns have repeatedly been raised in Kyrgyzstan regarding the negative impact of motorised vehicles on pastures, tourist areas and the ecosystems of specially protected areas. In particular, the issues concerned damage to the soil cover and vegetation, as well as the disruption of the natural landscape in popular tourist destinations.

However, the decree provides for a number of exceptions. The restrictions do not apply to roads passing through specially protected areas, transition and buffer zones of biosphere reserves, or to motor vehicles belonging to state and municipal authorities used in the performance of official duties.

Furthermore, the use of motorised vehicles is permitted for scientific research and cultural events of national importance, subject to approval by the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision.

An exception is also made for electric motor vehicles with a power output of up to 4 kW, which local residents use for domestic purposes.

The decree will come into force 15 days after its official publication.