Plans to relocate Babur’s statue in Andijan spark discussion

Reports have emerged about plans to relocate the statue of Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur in Andijan city and replace it with a residential complex. In response, the press service of the Andijan regional administration has clarified the situation.

According to Paragraph 16 of a draft decision titled "On measures to further improve the socio-economic development and business environment of Andijan region", it is proposed to move Babur’s statue to the "Registon" square in the city. This relocation would free up 1.2 hectares of land, where two residential complexes—20 and 16 stories high—are planned to be built with an investment of $90 million.

Additionally, the proposal includes modernizing the Alisher Navoi Park and constructing the "Andijan City" business center, featuring 19 residential complexes with 18 floors and 7 others exceeding 28 floors. These projects, covering 10.7 hectares, are expected to attract $288 million in investment.

"The relocation decision was made in consultation with the Scientific Council, Babur scholars, and Andijan elders. The plan aims to honor Babur’s legacy by relocating the statue to the "Registon" square in the historical "Old City" area, where Babur was born. The relocation will be accompanied by enhancements to the square and the creation of a new, beautiful public space," the administration’s statement emphasized.

The administration clarified that the vacated site would host the "Savdo Mall" complex, entertainment centers, offices, and other modern service-oriented buildings.

"Contrary to rumors circulating on social media, there are no plans to construct residential buildings on this site," the report states.

However, the regional administration confirmed plans to continue the construction of the "Andijan City" project on 10.7 hectares of the Alisher Navoi Park.