Thousands of Illegal Structures Demolished in Bishkek as City Pushes Urban Renewal
More than 6,300 residential and commercial structures have been demolished in Bishkek during the first half of 2025, as part of an ongoing urban renovation program, according to the city administration. Authorities report that over 80,000 square meters of municipal land have been cleared as a result. The sweeping effort follows a comprehensive review of land use across the Kyrgyz capital. In recent weeks, tensions have flared in the Kok-Zhar residential area, where officials began enforcing demolition orders against homes built on land the government claims was illegally occupied. During one such operation, five individuals were detained and administrative cases were opened against 17 others who protested the demolition of their homes. Approximately 120 residents reportedly blocked roads in an attempt to halt construction equipment and defend their properties. Many disputed homes were built on land formerly designated for agricultural use, which had been sold and developed for residential purposes over the past decade. The area now includes around 1,200 plots, with some 700 single and two-story houses. City officials argue that updated urban planning requires the reclamation of these areas for future public infrastructure projects. A prominent example includes the demolition of private homes and fences along the southern section of Bishkek’s government highway, currently under renovation for official use. This redevelopment, which followed the construction of new government and presidential offices nearby, has resulted in dozens of families losing part or all of their properties. Some residents, however, have managed to successfully challenge the demolitions in court. In response to mounting public criticism, Bishkek Mayor Aibek Dzhunushaliev has proposed a subsidized state mortgage program for families affected by the demolitions. Supported by city council members, the initiative also includes the rapid allocation of municipal land for multi-apartment housing and the creation of a transparent waiting list. “Several dozen families whose homes were removed during the reconstruction of Bishkek’s northern bypass have already received housing under the program,” the city administration stated. Mayor Dzhunushaliev emphasized the administration’s commitment to fulfilling President Sadyr Japarov’s directive that every Kyrgyz family should have a home. At the same time, he stressed the importance of aligning land use with current legislation, especially in areas originally zoned for agriculture. Despite official assurances, many residents remain skeptical. Some insist their homes were built legally and that they possess valid documentation. While a few court decisions have favored homeowners, most have lost their legal challenges against the city.
