Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a law "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan Aimed at Strengthening the Protection of Flora and Fauna."

The law introduces changes to two codes and two laws, which impose stricter penalties for violating regulations related to the use of natural resources.

The Criminal Code has been amended to include new provisions that increase punishment for hunting and fishing using electric current, explosives, chemicals, and biological agents. Fines for such actions range from 400 to 600 basic estimated values, with potential penalties including imprisonment for 3 to 7 years or restrictions on freedom for 3 to 5 years. In the case of aggravating circumstances, additional penalties such as the deprivation of certain rights may apply.

The Administrative Responsibility Code has seen fines for violations related to hunting and fishing rules double. Citizens will face fines ranging from 35 to 50 basic calculation units, and officials from 60 to 75 basic calculation units, for intentionally damaging or destroying vegetation on their land during the construction or renovation of buildings or structures.

The law also strengthens penalties for obstructing the work of environmental inspectors, increasing fines for both individuals and officials involved in such actions.

Amendments have been made to the "Protection and Use of Animal World" and "Hunting and Hunting Economy" laws to close legal gaps. Responsibility has been established for the intentional damage, destruction, or poisoning of trees, shrubs, and other plants using chemicals or biological agents during construction or reconstruction activities.

This new law aims to ensure more effective protection of natural resources and their rational use.