The planetarium in Bishkek is to be put out to tender again: no high-rise buildings or shopping centres

The planetarium in Bishkek is set to be put out to tender again early next week. The authorities intend to preserve its historical and educational purpose and prevent the construction of a high-rise building or a shopping centre.

The issue of the planetarium’s future was raised by participants at a meeting of the Environmental Council. Activists proposed preserving the site as an educational space for children and including a corresponding condition in the new tender.

The Mayor of Bishkek, Aibek Dzhunushaliev, announced that the previous decision regarding the site had been revoked. He explained that the planetarium had previously been sold at auction, but during the period it was in use, debts of around 4.5 million KGS had accumulated.

He also noted that the planetarium is due to be put out to tender at the very start of next week.

He added that the new tender will specify the facility’s intended use. In particular, the authorities intend to preserve the planetarium specifically as a scientific and educational venue.

The planetarium’s site covers approximately 30 sotok. The plot is of interest to developers, but the city intends to preserve its historical purpose.