Members of Kyrgyzstan's parliament, Maksat Alymbekov and Tabyldy Muratbekov, have proposed easing restrictions on construction near Lake Issyk-Kul. The initiative aims to boost tourism and create modern recreational infrastructure, according to infohub.kz.
The lawmakers have submitted amendments to laws regulating the lake's ecosystem and the use of water transport for public discussion. A key proposal is to lift the ban on building shipyards, which would allow for infrastructure for pleasure and sports yachts. This may be linked to the recent international "Formula 1" water racing competitions held in early August.
The bill also allows for the construction of pontoons, floating homes, observation decks, and wooden decks on the lake. The existing ban on building within 100 meters of the shore remains, but with exceptions: piers, boathouses, food outlets, and toilets may be built provided they have treatment systems.
Additionally, the deputies propose relaxing requirements for the discharge of treated wastewater from fish farms to encourage the growth of endemic fish populations. With the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers and the Academy of Sciences, they plan to allow the farming of non-native species, such as rainbow trout, in the lake.
It is not yet known whether all amendments will be adopted. The bill is in the public discussion phase and is available for review. The deputies' desire to develop tourism on one of Central Asia's most beautiful bodies of water is understandable: it would bring significant revenue to the budget. However, even at the draft stage, the danger of uncontrolled construction of floating homes and cafes on the lake is evident, which could irreversibly damage its ecosystem.
Earlier, it was reported that a large-scale resort and technology hub are planned for the northern shore of Issyk-Kul.