Late in the evening of September 8, social networks reported the start of demolition of flower stalls at the Yunusabad Market (Universam). It was reported earlier that a three-story complex with an eco-bazaar would be erected in its place.
In December last year, the authorities announced that a complex with an eco-bazaar, a mall, offices, underground parking and restaurants, and a green area on the roof would be built on the site of the market.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to whom the project was presented, gave directives to organize construction in phases so that the market would operate without interruption.
Earlier, in April last year, speaking at a session of the capital's council of people's deputies, the president said that the market would get six stories.
While some heritage sites are being restored, Tashkent is rapidly losing landmark spots due to widespread demolition driven by major redevelopment projects. These modernization efforts, intended to replace dilapidated housing and build new infrastructure, are erasing the city's unique historical character, including its traditional mahallas (neighborhoods).
Traditional mahallas (neighborhoods): Entire neighborhoods of centuries-old adobe homes, known as mahallas, are being bulldozed to make way for high-rise buildings and commercial zones. Critics worry this will permanently destroy the unique appearance of old Tashkent.
