New National Natural Parks Established in Uzbekistan
2026-03-31 10:00:00 / News
Specifically, the “Ovjazsoy – Moviy Toglar” and “Pskem” national natural parks have been established in the Tashkent region, while the “Fergana” national natural park has been created in the Fergana region, covering a total area of 188.8 thousand hectares. At the same time, the area of the “Pap” national natural park in the Namangan region has been expanded from 10 thousand to 135.3 thousand hectares.
For reference, in recent years Uzbekistan has been implementing large-scale reforms aimed at the rational use of natural resources, the conservation of ecosystems, and the expansion and development of protected natural areas. In particular, between 2025 and 2026, the territories of 10 protected natural sites were expanded. As a result, rare species of flora and fauna in these areas have been placed under full protection.
It is worth noting that, as a result of the establishment and expansion of these protected areas, 27 rare and 7 endemic animal species, as well as 40 plant species listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan, will be preserved in the Pskem and Kurama mountain ranges. In addition, 24 threatened animal species in the Fergana Valley, along with unique natural landmarks, will also be protected.
Furthermore, the number of protected areas within the Department’s system has increased from 24 to 27, and as of March 30 this year, they now cover 15.9% of the total territory of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Under the relevant presidential decision, effective from July 1 of this year, the salaries of personnel working in protected natural areas will be increased by up to three times. In addition, a system for awarding special ranks and insignia to managerial and specialized staff has been introduced.
In 2025 alone, more than 400 units of equipment and specialized machinery were provided to strengthen operational capacity and enhance protection measures. In 2026, further reinforcement of the material and technical base of protected natural areas is предусмотрено within the framework of the nationwide “Bioheritage" project.
It is also noted that, as a result of strengthened protection measures and the effective implementation of biotechnical interventions, populations of thousands of rare animal species have increased significantly.
