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In the historic center of Bukhara, renowned for its ancient architectural monuments and unique atmosphere, the use of scooters, electric scooters, bicycles, and other personal mobility devices is now completely banned. This initiative marks the first of its kind in Uzbekistan, and judging by public reaction, it is unlikely to be the last.
The primary reason for the ban is the desire to protect pedestrians and preserve historical heritage. Scooter and e-scooter users have long been a source of frustration for both locals and tourists. These vehicles are often left haphazardly, disrupting the order in the narrow streets of the old city. Moreover, riders frequently drive on sidewalks, creating hazardous situations and endangering the lives and health of pedestrians, including numerous tourists and elderly residents.
There is also significant concern that such vehicles may damage the historical monuments located in the old city. Constant vibrations from vehicle movement and random parking could potentially harm the foundations of ancient structures.
As part of the new regulation, road signs have been installed in Bukhara to prohibit the movement of such vehicles on specific streets and near historical sites, including the famous Lyabi-Khauz complex. The ban applies to all types of motorized transport, including mopeds and scooters. Violators may now face administrative penalties under the law.
City residents have largely supported this initiative, noting that it will help preserve the unique charm of the old city, make it safer for walking, and more welcoming for tourists. Many hope that similar bans will be implemented in other cities across Uzbekistan, where the issue of disorganized use of personal mobility devices is also a pressing concern.
In this way, Bukhara not only protects its status as a historical center but also sets an example for other cities in the country, demonstrating how to effectively address safety and cultural preservation challenges.
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.