Don’t Leave Trees Trapped Under Concrete: A Threat to Urban Greenery
A concerning situation has been observed in Yashnobod District of Tashkent, in the Parvoz neighborhood, Aviators-1 residential area, near Building No. 20 and a local dental clinic. According to observations, the areas surrounding several trees have been covered with concrete almost up to their trunks, creating a serious threat to their healthy growth and survival.
Experts emphasize that trees rely not only on their root systems for nutrients but also on proper air circulation and access to water through the soil. When the ground around a tree is completely covered with concrete, oxygen can no longer reach the roots effectively, rainwater and irrigation water cannot penetrate the soil, and the natural exchange of nutrients is disrupted.
According to environmental and arboriculture specialists, an open soil area with a diameter of at least 1.5 to 2 meters should be maintained around every tree trunk. This space allows roots to absorb oxygen, receive sufficient moisture, and support the tree’s overall health. Without it, the root system can gradually deteriorate, leaving the tree weakened, more vulnerable to diseases, and ultimately at risk of dying.
Unfortunately, during urban improvement and beautification projects, the biological needs of trees are often overlooked. As a result, concrete surfaces that may appear neat and aesthetically pleasing can become a hidden threat to urban ecosystems. It is not necessary to cut down a tree to destroy it—suffocating its roots beneath concrete can lead to the same outcome.
Trees play a vital role in maintaining the environmental sustainability of cities. They improve air quality, provide shade and cooling during hot weather, capture dust and pollutants, and contribute to a healthier and more comfortable urban environment. Therefore, protecting existing green spaces and ensuring favorable conditions for tree growth is a shared responsibility of both public institutions and citizens.
We respectfully call on the relevant authorities and responsible organizations to examine this situation, remove the concrete covering from around the affected trees, and take the necessary measures to preserve and protect urban greenery.
Every tree is an investment in clean air, a cooler city, and a healthier future for generations to come. Protecting them is a responsibility we all share.