Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  At the fifty-ninth plenary session of the Senate, the Law "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan Aimed at Strengthening the Protection of Animal and Plant Life" was reviewed.

Currently, illegal hunting and poaching are leading to a steady decline in flora and fauna, exacerbating the ecological situation and causing public discontent. Media frequently report instances of intentional damage to trees using chemical, biological, and bacteriological agents during construction and other work. There is also an increase in violations in fishing using illegal methods such as electricity, explosives, and chemicals, leading to the depletion of fish resources.

Existing legislation does not impose strict penalties for such actions, allowing poachers to continue their illegal activities. Sanctions for obstructing the activities of state environmental inspectors also remain insufficient, reducing the effectiveness of preventing violations in this area.

The proposed law makes changes and additions to two codes and two laws, strengthening responsibility for violations of the use of natural resources. Provisions for stricter penalties for hunting and fishing using electric current, explosives, chemicals, and biological agents are introduced into the Criminal Code. For such actions, fines ranging from 400 to 600 basic calculation units, restriction of freedom for a period of 3 to 5 years, or imprisonment for 3 to 7 years are provided. In aggravating circumstances, additional penalties such as deprivation of certain rights are introduced.

Moreover, fines established by the Code of Administrative Offenses for violating hunting and fishing rules are doubled. For intentional damage or destruction of plants during construction or reconstruction on one’s own territory, fines for individuals will range from 35 to 50 basic calculation units, while for legal entities, the fines will range from 60 to 75 basic calculation units.

The law also enhances responsibility for obstructing the legal activities of environmental inspectors, increasing fines for individuals and legal entities. Changes were made to the laws "On the Protection and Use of Animal Life" and "On Hunting and Hunting Management" to eliminate legal gaps.

The adoption of this law is aimed at protecting biological resources, preventing illegal hunting, enhancing the effectiveness of environmental control, and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources in the country. Following discussions, the senators approved the law.