Uzbekistan proposes higher fines for fare evasion

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan has proposed increasing fines for passengers who travel without a ticket on public transport. A first offence could result in a fine of 220,000 soums, while a repeat offence could carry a fine of 440,000 soums, Muhammadjon Qahhorov, director of the state institution responsible for monitoring and controlling passenger transport in Tashkent, told O'zbekiston 24.

According to Qahhorov, the relevant proposals have already been drafted and submitted to the Legislative Chamber for consideration.

Currently, fare evasion on trolleybuses, trams, as well as urban and suburban buses is punishable by a fine equal to one-tenth of the basic calculated value, or 41,200 soums.

Under the proposed changes, the fine would increase to 220,000 soums for a first offence and 440,000 soums for a repeat offence. The proposed penalty for a repeat offence would therefore be more than ten times the current fine.

The need to strengthen liability for fare evasion is provided for by a Cabinet of Ministers resolution dated 3 June 2026. Under the document, the Ministry of Transport and Ministry of Internal Affairs are required to prepare the relevant amendments to legislation.

New fare payment rules will also take effect from 1 September for passengers using buses operating under the gross-contract system. Passengers will be required to pay their fare immediately after boarding the bus.

If a passenger does not make a payment through the validator or provide confirmation of eligibility for a fare benefit, they will be considered to be travelling without a ticket.