Tashkent Khokim Calls for Humane Treatment of Animals

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Khokim of Tashkent Shavkat Umurzakov expressed serious concern over the increasing cases of cruel and irresponsible treatment of animals and declared his intention to move the creation of a modern management system for stray animals into a practical phase, according to the capital city administration's press service.

The khokimiyat noted that reports of violence against animals appear almost daily. According to city authorities, recent events have reconfirmed the need not only for a prompt response to such cases, but also for the consistent formation of a culture of mercy, responsibility, and respect for all living things in society.

The administration emphasized that kindness, compassion, and care for the vulnerable have always been inherent to the people of Uzbekistan, and that animal cruelty contradicts national traditions and values. They also stated that the treatment of those unable to protect themselves serves as an indicator of society's moral level.

To implement these objectives, a working meeting was held involving Head of the Khokim's Administration of Tashkent Shokhrukh Mamadjanov, founder of the "Hayot" shelter for homeless dogs Iroda Matkarimova, as well as representatives of the urban improvement sector and the stray animal capture service.

As noted by the khokimiyat, the initiative involves not only the construction of a specialized shelter for dogs, but also the creation of a comprehensive system encompassing humane capture, veterinary examination, vaccination, sterilization, treatment, temporary housing, and rehoming of animals.

The project plans to involve specialized experts, veterinarians, representatives of public organizations, and the volunteer community.

The city administration also called on residents, pet owners, and public organizations to actively contribute to fostering a responsible attitude toward animals, not to remain indifferent to cases of cruelty, and to support initiatives for their protection.

The khokimiyat emphasized that Tashkent must be a safe and comfortable city for both residents and animals, and that the well-being of citizens is inextricably linked to the humane treatment of domestic and stray animals.