Nationwide Inspections Launched at Commercial and Public Facilities Following Aviator Mall Tragedy

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Following the tragic fire at Aviator shopping center, which claimed the life of a child, Uzbekistan has launched comprehensive inspections of commercial facilities and public catering enterprises. The Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) stated that operations at facilities found in serious violation of safety regulations will be temporarily suspended.

Odil Kuldashev, Head of the MES Department, emphasized that compliance with fire safety requirements in buildings and structures is the full responsibility of facility management. Officials were urged to ensure continuous readiness of emergency exits, proper functioning of fire alarm systems and other safety equipment, as well as sufficient availability of primary firefighting equipment.

Additionally, facility staff must possess knowledge and practical skills for responding to emergencies and regularly undergo training to improve their qualifications. Lease agreements are required to include obligations for tenants to strictly adhere to fire safety regulations.

As part of the inspections, working groups have been established across the country to evaluate compliance with fire safety rules and the organization of fire prevention measures. Facilities with serious violations will have their operations temporarily suspended until deficiencies are corrected.

The MES reminded that failure to comply with fire safety regulations carries both administrative and criminal liability. “Ignorance of the law does not exempt from responsibility,” Kuldashev stressed, noting that compliance is essential to protect the lives and health of citizens, employees, and visitors.

A criminal case has been opened regarding the Aviator mall fire under Articles 192-11 (abuse of authority by officials of non-governmental organizations) and 259 (violation of fire safety regulations) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan.