Uzbekistan Approves Controversial ‘Sea Breeze Project’ at Charvak Reservoir

The Uzbek government has approved the contentious project at the Charvak reservoir in Tashkent region, despite vocal opposition from environmental activists and mounting public concern.

Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov signed Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 490, granting “Sea Breeze Uzbekistan” LLC a 25-year direct lease on 577 hectares of land to develop a $5 billion all-season resort complex.

Amid widespread protests, the Ministry of Ecology and the Ministry of Water Resources released back-to-back statements pledging strict government oversight throughout the project’s implementation.

The Ministry of Ecology stated that it will supervise adherence to environmental legislation, including the monitoring of air quality, resource efficiency, and public health safeguards. The ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency and public engagement, stating: “Environmental protection remains an absolute priority for the state.”

A project called Sea Breeze Uzbekistan by Azerbaijani entrepreneur Emin Agalarov sparked public backlash after large-scale construction was announced near Lake Charvak. Following growing concerns over environmental damage raised by ecoactivists ...

“The Ministry of Ecology will conduct continuous monitoring to identify any risks related to pollution, misuse of resources, or potential threats to citizens’ health,” the statement added.

The Ministry of Water Resources affirmed that the Charvak reservoir will remain under full state control. It assured the public that all wastewater generated by the project will be diverted to a centralized treatment facility, with no discharge permitted into the reservoir. The ministry stated that construction will take place outside protected water zones and comply fully with sanitary and hydraulic engineering standards.

Officials also noted that an inter-agency task force will conduct ongoing monitoring, with immediate responses promised in the event of any violations. Safeguarding drinking water and maintaining the reservoir’s water quality are described as “absolute priorities.”

Despite assurances, the project continues to provoke heated debate under the viral hashtag #SaveChorvoq. Government officials have pledged strict oversight, but environmental groups remain skeptical as construction proceeds.

BY Sadoqat Jalolova