Why is this important
The new version of the law creates a legal basis for large-scale infrastructure projects, including toll roads. This can attract private and foreign investment and improve the quality of the road network.
What happened
- On September 23, the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis adopted the law in the final reading. The document has been sent to the Senate.
- Paid road construction is permitted only if there is an alternative free route.
- The fare should be “economically justified” and take into account the interests of users.
- Norms on environmental impact assessment, taking into account public opinion, and creating a barrier-free environment are being introduced.
- The law also regulates the movement of heavy vehicles and the placement of service infrastructure.
- Застройщики обязаны восстанавливать дороги, поврежденные при строительстве коммуникаций.
Context
The law replaces the 2007 edition and has been developing since 2018. In 2024, a separate law on toll roads was discussed again.
The Tashkent-Samarkand ($1.4 billion) and Tashkent-Andijan ($4.65 billion) highway projects are at the stage of feasibility study and tenders. Uzbekistan expects to use the PPP model, as with the Tashkent—Kamchik highway.
