The Times Of Central Asia

18 Jan 2025

Home, Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Features, Features

Uzbekistan: 17 Nationals Among Dead from Alcohol Poisoning in Türkiye

January 18, 2025
By Times of Central Asia

Seventeen Uzbek citizens have died after drinking illegally made alcohol in Türkiye and another five are being treated in intensive care, Uzbekistan’s consulate in Istanbul said Saturday. Nearly 40 people have died of alcohol poisoning in Türkiye’s biggest city in recent days.

The consulate said on Telegram that the death toll rose on Friday after three more Uzbek nationals died. It said it was preparing documents so that the bodies can be sent back to Uzbekistan, and that consulate staff are visiting the sick Uzbeks in hospitals and staying in touch with their relatives and Turkish authorities.

“It was also discovered that some compatriots, despite being poisoned, attempted to treat themselves at home and did not seek hospital care. When approached, they explained that hospitalization might be financially burdensome. However, such decisions have subsequently led to kidney failure, deteriorating vision, and respiratory issues,” the consulate said.

Some 38 out of the 92 people who went to hospitals died, according to Anadolu, Türkiye’s state-run news agency. At least two dozen people had to be intubated, and eight others were later discharged, the agency said Saturday.

The Istanbul governor’s office said on Thursday that it had been stepping up efforts to combat the sale of illegal alcohol, which can have high levels of dangerous substances such as methanol. It said it had detained about a dozen people, including four on homicide charges; seized 29 tons of counterfeit alcohol since the beginning of the year; and closed 64 businesses that were selling it.

17 Jan 2025

Home, Life & Culture, Kazakhstan Life & Culture

Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan Issues Statement on Quadroberism

January 17, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan (DUMK) has expressed concern over the growing spread of “quadroberism” among children and adolescents. This phenomenon involves individuals imitating the habits of animals by wearing masks, tails, and ears, as well as behaving like fictional creatures. The DUMK addressed the issue in a recent statement.

In its statement, the DUMK emphasized that Islam places humans above all other creatures, granting them reason and consciousness. To support this position, the administration cited verses from the Holy Quran:

“We have honored the descendants of Adam, allowed them to move on land and sea, endowed them with benefits, and granted them a great advantage over the many whom We created.”

Another verse states:

“We created man in the best possible image.”

The DUMK argues that the deliberate imitation of animals – including their habits, sounds, and behaviors – constitutes a distortion of divine creation. It further noted that Islam forbids any form of behavior that undermines the distinct identity of humans. For example, the imitation of one gender by another is prohibited, and, by extension, imitating animals is considered equally inadmissible under Shariah.

Cultural Expressions vs. Quadroberism

However, the DUMK drew a clear distinction between quadroberism and metaphorical comparisons or cultural expressions. The statement clarified that comparing humans to animals in a metaphorical sense – such as likening bravery to a lion, cunning to a fox, or patience to a camel – does not fall under the definition of quadroberism. Similarly, theater performances, children’s games, and other cultural activities that do not involve a change in personal identity are not condemned.

The DUMK underscored that quadroberism, which includes imitating animal sounds, moving on all fours, and adopting animal behaviors, is “strictly prohibited by Shariah.” Additionally, it addressed the trend of “quadrobics,” a form of exercise that involves running on all fours to imitate animals. This activity, derived from the combination of the words “quadro” (four) and “aerobics,” was described as a concerning trend among youth.

Quadroberism in Central Asia and Beyond

The quadrober subculture, which involves young people mimicking animal behavior by running on all fours and using animal-themed accessories, has gained traction not only in Kazakhstan, but also in neighboring Uzbekistan and Russia. Authorities in these countries are taking measures to address the phenomenon.

In Kazakhstan, deputies have proposed conducting a thorough study of the quadrober phenomenon and, if deemed necessary, developing legislation to combat it. In Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that manifestations of the quadrober subculture among children and adolescents would be treated as a failure of parental responsibility, punishable by a fine of five basic calculation units.

In Russia, State Duma deputies are drafting legislation to ban the promotion of destructive ideologies, including quadroberism. Russian lawmakers and psychologists have voiced concerns that the hobby could negatively affect children’s mental health.

As the debate continues across the region, the DUMK’s statement adds a spiritual perspective to the growing conversation about the implications of quadroberism.

17 Jan 2025

Business & Economy, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Business & Economy

Kazakhstan Sets New Record for New Car Sales in 2024

January 17, 2025
By Times of Central Asia

Kazakhstan set a new record for new car sales in 2024, with over 205,000 units sold, which is nearly 7,000 more than the previous year. This milestone was achieved despite a slowdown in buying activity during the middle of the year, followed by a sharp rebound in the final months.

According to the Kazakhstan Automobile Union (KAO), official dealers sold 205,100 new cars in 2024. This figure represents a 3.2 percent increase from 2023 when 198,600 were sold, which was a record at the time. At the beginning of 2024, many experts believed matching the previous year’s results would be difficult due to market saturation. These doubts were reinforced when sales volumes declined during the spring and summer compared to the same months in 2023. However, starting in October, monthly sales consistently exceeded 20,000 units, and December closed the year with a record-setting 25,500 cars sold.

“The whole of last year, despite some slowdown in the market at the beginning, passed under the sign of intensified competition and a lot of favorable offers from manufacturers and dealers. Unprecedented financing terms, including no down payment and no installments, were the result of coordinated work by the government, the Financial Market Regulatory and Development Agency, second-tier banks, and microfinance institutions. Excellent conditions for buyers have been developed, and the results have not been long in coming: the country’s automobile market has set sales records for the second year in a row,” said KAO President Anar Makasheva.

Kazakhstan’s top ten car brands saw significant changes in 2024. Hyundai maintained its leading position with 44,200 cars sold, although this represents a 5.4 percent decrease from the previous year. The brand, which manufactures vehicles locally in Almaty, retained a market share of over 21 percent.

Chevrolet, which is also assembled domestically in Kostanai, ranked second with approximately 31,000 units sold. This figure marks a significant 32.5 percent decline from 2023. Kia placed third with 23,000 units sold, which is a 9.6 percent year-on-year decrease.

In contrast, Chinese brands experienced notable growth. Chery secured fourth place with 14,800 cars sold, representing a 21.7 percent increase over the previous year. Jac — assembled in Kostanai — ranked fifth with 11,700 units sold, achieving an impressive 56.7 percent growth.

Toyota, an imported brand, secured sixth place with 11,000 cars sold, reflecting a modest 2.7 percent increase compared to 2023. Haval, another Chinese brand, ranked seventh with approximately 11,000 units sold, representing a 45.3 percent increase. The top ten were rounded out by Jetour with 9,500 units sold, an increase of 141.9 percent; Changan with 8,500 units sold, an increase of 39.8 percent; and Geely with 8,300 units sold, an increase of 126.5 percent.

Chinese brands now account for 39 percent of Kazakhstan’s automotive market. This is a significant increase from previous years and aligns with a global trend. In the electric vehicle segment, the Chinese brand Zeekr led the market, with official dealers selling 809 electric cars in 2024. However, cars with internal combustion engines remain the top choice for Kazakhstani consumers.

As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan introduced stricter rules for importing foreign cars on December 1, 2023.

17 Jan 2025

Home, Turkmenistan, Turkmenistan Local Politics, Local Politics, Features, Turkmenistan Lead Story

19th-Century Historic Building Under Demolition in Turkmenistan

January 17, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

The demolition of a 19th-century historic building, formerly the History and Local History Museum and originally a Shiite mosque named after Haji Myalik, has begun in the city of Turkmenabat.

Constructed in the 19th century, this architectural landmark was a vital part of Turkmenabat’s cultural heritage for decades. The building served as a museum starting in 1967, but in 2011, after more than 40 years, its exhibitions were relocated to a new facility built specifically for that purpose. Despite the building’s historical significance, local authorities opted against restoration or handing it over to the Muftiyat (the official Islamic authority) and instead decided to demolish it.

A Unique Architectural Legacy

The architectural design of the former Haji Myalik Mosque was distinctive and highly regarded in the region. Tourist guides described it as one of Turkmenabat’s most striking landmarks. The facade featured intricate brickwork, three semicircular arches, a prominent high portal, and two small towers capped with pointed domes in Ottoman architectural style. On the right side of the facade stood a minaret with a metal dome, once the tallest vantage point in Chardjui (the historic name of Turkmenabat).

Today, this iconic structure is being dismantled piece by piece. The roof has already been removed, and the demolition process is ongoing.

A Worrying Trend

The demolition of historic buildings in Turkmenistan is not a new phenomenon and has raised alarm among residents and cultural heritage experts. In Ashgabat, the capital, numerous old buildings of historical and cultural importance have been destroyed over the years. Notable examples include the buildings of Karakumstroy, Hotel Turkmenistan, the Turkmenhovayollary Department, and the public garden featuring a monument to N. Aitakov.

Ashgabat- A row of marble towers in Berzengi; image: TCA, Stephen M. Bland

A moderately young metropolis, its appellation meaning “City of Love” in Persian, Ashgabat developed around a Russian garrison during the 1880s. Leveled in the earthquake of 1948, prefab Soviet blocks soon sprung from the debris. Shaping his vision, former President Niyazov had these kommunalkas torn down and replaced by boxy, flat-topped marble towers with dazzling, reflective windows. Largely of a uniform eleven storys, their showy ostentation lacks any semblance of functionality, with endless ministry buildings standing unoccupied, overpriced residential blocks home to the affluent few.

In 2021, authorities began demolishing four-story residential buildings at the intersection of Turkmenbashi and Atamurat Niyazov avenues, a move that drew criticism from citizens. Experts warn that such actions could result in the irreversible loss of the country’s unique architectural heritage.

As the dismantling of the former Haji Myalik Mosque continues, concerns grow about the preservation of Turkmenistan’s historic and cultural landmarks, many of which are disappearing under the pressure of modernization.

17 Jan 2025

International Affairs, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan International Affairs, Kazakhstan Business & Economy

Kazakhstan-China Railway Cargo Transportation Reaches Record High in 2024

January 17, 2025
By Sergey Kwan

In 2024, railway cargo transportation between Kazakhstan and China exceeded 32 million tons, achieving an all-time high, according to the Kazakh Ministry of Transport.

Kazakhstan’s rail exports to China grew by 1 million tons, totaling 13.7 million tons. Key export commodities included iron and non-ferrous ore, ferrous and non-ferrous metals, and grain. Meanwhile, Chinese transit cargo passing through Kazakhstan increased by 19%, reaching 15.3 million tons.

Additionally, containerized Chinese cargo transiting to Europe via the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) recorded significant growth, rising by 43% compared to 2023.

One of the main drivers of this record-breaking performance was the opening of a Kazakh terminal at the dry port in Xi’an, China. In 2024, more than 300 container trains passed through this terminal and the Kazakh Caspian port of Aktau, an astonishing thirtyfold increase from 2023.

Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), the country’s national railway company, has expanded its terminal network. Currently, Kazakhstan operates five major terminals:

The port of Lianyungang (China),
The dry port in Xi’an (China),
Dostyk railway station (Kazakhstan),
The Khorgos Gateway dry port (Kazakhstan), and
The ferry complex at the Caspian port of Kuryk (Kazakhstan).

Kazakhstan has announced plans to add nine additional terminals over the next two years, reinforcing Kazakhstan’s position as a vital hub for transcontinental trade.

Several terminal construction projects began in 2024, including:

Almaty, Kazakhstan: A logistics hub aimed at strengthening domestic cargo-handling capacity.
Azerbaijani port of Alat: A joint project involving Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and China to establish a cargo terminal in Baku.
Budapest, Hungary: A terminal in Hungary’s capital designed to expand Kazakhstan’s trade network in Europe.
Selyatino, Russia: A facility near Moscow to support rail cargo transportation between Kazakhstan, Russia, and China.

Additionally, and in collaboration with China’s port of Lianyungang, Kazakhstan has begun constructing a container hub at the Caspian port of Aktau.

Kazakhstan’s expanding railway infrastructure will solidify its role as a key logistics hub connecting China, Central Asia, and Europe. With continued investment in terminal networks and partnerships with regional and global stakeholders, Kazakhstan is well-positioned to further enhance its trade capacity and meet the growing demand for transcontinental cargo transportation.

17 Jan 2025

Environment, Kyrgyzstan Environment, Kyrgyzstan, Kyrgyzstan Business & Economy

Railway Relocation Project Aims to Decongest Traffic and Improve Air Quality in Bishkek

January 17, 2025
By Sergey Kwan

On January 16, the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) presented Bishkek Mayor Aibek Junushaliev with several proposals for a project to relocate the city’s railway tracks outside the capital’s limits, the Bishkek municipality’s press service reported.

The railway, originally built during the Soviet era, runs through Bishkek from east to west, dividing the city nearly in half between its northern and southern parts. These tracks, used for cargo and passenger transport, pass through the central parts of the city and intersect with numerous strategic streets and roads. This setup has long been a major contributor to traffic congestion, especially during morning and evening peak hours.

At the end of 2024, Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet of Ministers approved a memorandum of cooperation with CRBC, focusing on a large-scale upgrade of Bishkek’s railway and road infrastructure. The ambitious project includes relocating the existing railway tracks to bypass the city, constructing a new railway line outside Bishkek, and transforming the current railway corridor into a high-speed roadway.

Junushaliev explained that the new railway line will bypass the city to the north. The vacated area from the old railway tracks will be redeveloped with a new highway with high-rise residential buildings and shopping malls along its route.

The total cost of the railway relocation project is estimated at $585 million. It is expected to address two major urban challenges: traffic congestion and air pollution.

Traffic congestion in Bishkek has been a persistent issue, with vehicles frequently backing up at intersections where the railway intersects major city roads. This not only delays commuters but also significantly worsens air quality. Exhaust emissions from idling vehicles in traffic jams are considered one of the leading contributors to the city’s air pollution.

By relocating the railway tracks and introducing a high-speed roadway, the project is anticipated to streamline traffic flow, reduce congestion, and improve Bishkek’s air quality.