8 Greenhouse Farms in Tashkent Fined by Ministry of Ecology
The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change in Uzbekistan recently took action against greenhouse farms using pollutants for heating. Inspections were conducted at 30 greenhouse farms in the Tashkent region, resulting in fines for those found in violation.
Officials from various authorities, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Guard, participated in the inspections carried out on the night of February 7-8. The checks covered greenhouses in the Zangiota, Tashkent, and Qibray districts, where it was discovered that some farms were using rubber tires and other pollutants for heating.
As a result of these findings, eight greenhouses were fined – five in Qibray, two in Zangiota, and one in Tashkent. This is not the first instance of penalties being imposed on greenhouse owners in the region, as fines have previously been issued for violations related to ventilation pipe regulations.
In efforts to enforce compliance with environmental regulations, legal action has been taken against 33 farms with the possibility of suspending their operations, while warnings were issued to 166 entrepreneurs. The Ministry of Ecology has been actively working to address issues related to greenhouse heating practices and air pollution.
In response to concerns raised by greenhouse owners regarding the suspension of gas supplies, the Ministry of Energy emphasized the importance of transitioning to alternative fuels as stipulated in gas supply contracts. Measures have been put in place to encourage the switch from gas to coal heating, including subsidies, preferential loans, and compensation for the purchase of coal boilers.
Despite these efforts, temporary restrictions on gas supply to greenhouses were announced by “Hududgaztaminot” on December 12, 2024, due to a drop in temperatures. The restrictions were expected to be lifted once gas pressure was restored, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by greenhouse owners in meeting environmental requirements while ensuring adequate heating for their crops.
