Starting from February 1, 2026, Uzbekistan will introduce new rules that completely prohibit the operation and re-registration of vehicles older than 50 years. The Ministry of Justice of the republic has announced that such vehicles will be automatically removed from the state registry. As part of the reforms, a system of specialized license plates for heavy machinery, quarry vehicles, legal taxis, and certified antiques will also be implemented. Vehicle registration will become digital: the information systems of the Ministry of Internal Affairs will be integrated with the databases of other agencies, allowing traffic police officers to promptly access electronic sales contracts and invoices. Registration certificates will no longer indicate the owner's place of residence.
Similar initiatives in Kyrgyzstan, especially in Bishkek, could significantly improve air quality. Currently, a significant number of old cars in the capital are one of the main causes of pollution, as many of them do not meet modern environmental standards and contribute to the formation of winter smog.
The experience of Uzbekistan demonstrates that without decisive measures to limit the use of outdated vehicle fleets, it is impossible to address issues of traffic congestion and ecology. Introducing age restrictions for cars in Bishkek could significantly relieve urban roads and promote the renewal of the vehicle fleet to more environmentally friendly models. This measure, combined with data digitization, as planned in Uzbekistan, could be an important step towards creating a safe and clean urban environment.
