Saxaul thieves were fined in Bukhara

A raid conducted in the desert areas of the Romitan and Olot districts in the Bukhara region uncovered illegal saxaul harvesting, according to the press service of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change.  

In Romitan district, it was reported that the illegal activity caused environmental damage amounting to 6.2 million sums. Two individuals involved were fined a total of 18.7 million sums, bringing the combined financial penalty to 24.9 million sums.  

In Olot district, another offender, identified as M.A., inflicted 5.2 million sums worth of environmental damage. This individual was fined 9.4 million sums, resulting in a total penalty of 14.6 million sums.  

The ministry emphasized that similar raids are ongoing across other regions of the country to curb the illegal cutting of saxaul plants, which play a vital role in combating desertification.  

It was also noted that earlier raids in the Bukhara region exposed 25 violations involving illegal saxaul harvesting. These incidents caused 29.7 million sums in environmental damage, with offenders fined a total of 222.9 million sums. Collectively, violators have been ordered to pay 252.6 million sums in damages and fines.  

Authorities continue to urge citizens to respect environmental laws and protect Uzbekistan’s fragile desert ecosystems.