One of the pressing problems for many Tashkent residents is the presence of restaurants, cafes, and various food establishments located on the ground floors of residential buildings, which, in the literal sense, poison the lives of the city’s inhabitants. Points where they prepare samsa, shashlik, tandoor dishes, and gumma, cooking all day long, often create unbearable living conditions. What makes it worse is that there seems to be no real accountability for these businesses.

Endless complaints

The Potrebitel.uz community is continuously flooded with complaints from residents suffering from the smoke and stench that seeps into their homes. People complain that from morning until evening, instead of fresh air, their apartments are filled with a mixture of smoke from frying oil, coal smoke, and intense food odors. This is not only uncomfortable but can also pose a health hazard, especially for those with allergies or respiratory illnesses.

A real-life example: in the «Sputnik-1» neighborhood, residents have been trying to get rid of the unbearable smell coming from a gumma-cooking establishment on the first floor for two years now. Despite numerous complaints to the Sanitary and Epidemiological Service (SES) and the use of government service portals, the situation remains unchanged. Residents continue to suffer from the oily fumes and smoke, while the regulatory authorities appear to be inactive.

Ineffective responses

The SES, which is responsible for overseeing the sanitary conditions of public spaces, often fails to provide the necessary assistance, according to the affected residents. They report that inspectors visit the location, but refer to some «oral order» not to interfere with the activities of businesses. This allows food establishments to continue their operations, despite evident violations. As a result, instead of taking real measures, the SES merely takes statements, without addressing the problem.

In a law-abiding state, no «oral orders» should take precedence over the law. If a business violates commercial operation rules and creates harmful conditions for those around it, its activities must be brought into compliance with regulations or suspended. Residents have the full right to live in comfortable conditions in their homes, and their health should not be sacrificed for someone else’s profit.

What is more important: business development or the well-being of residents?

This raises an important question: what takes priority — business development or the well-being of those living near such establishments? Of course, supporting small businesses is vital for the economy, but it must not be forgotten that entrepreneurship should operate within the bounds of the law. No profit can justify endangering the health and peace of others.

What can be done?

How can we resolve the issue of smelly eateries beneath windows? First, there needs to be strict oversight to ensure compliance with sanitary and environmental standards. If an establishment violates these rules, it must be required to upgrade its ventilation and filtration systems. Second, the practice of «oral orders» that contradict laws should be eliminated. Third, there must be clear regulations and zoning for food establishments to ensure they do not harm residential areas.

Moreover, effective communication between residents, regulatory authorities, and business owners can help ease this conflict. It is important to find compromises and work toward improving conditions both for businesses and for people living nearby.

The problem of smelly eateries under windows is not just about business development but also about the right of residents to a healthy and comfortable environment. It is necessary that the law and the interests of all parties are respected and that the relevant authorities act in the best interest of the citizens.

The article may contain inaccuracies as it is translated by AI. For more details, please refer to the Russian version of the article. If you notice any inaccuracies, you can send corrections via the Telegram bot: Uzvaibik_bot.