The requirement for a propiska in taxis is back: why is the discontent with the new decision growing?

The new rules for taxi drivers in Uzbekistan are causing heated debate among the public. In particular, the critical attitude of lawyer and blogger Khushnudbek Khudoiberdiev has attracted the attention of many users.

Territorial restrictions for taxi drivers: where did it start?

After the new resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers, which came into force on April 2, 2025, taxi drivers can now legally operate only in the territory where their license plate is assigned. That is, for example, owners of cars with license plate number 60 can operate only in Andijan, and drivers with license plate number 95 can operate only in Karakalpakstan. Previously, it was possible to work freely in the territory indicated on the license plate.

Is it possible to evade the law? Will it open the way to the underground economy?

Due to the above restrictions, drivers from the regions are now deprived of the opportunity to legally operate taxis in Tashkent. This, in turn, can lead to an increase in illegal taxis, pick-up and drop-offs, and passenger transportation in private cars. As the blogger noted, a taxi that used to arrive in the city in 2 minutes will soon be delayed by 20 minutes, and the possibility of price increases is increasing.

Who will be harmed by the new rules, who will benefit?

The number of drivers who are forced to work only in their region will decrease sharply. Those who do not have a residence permit in Tashkent will be forced to drive with a "power of attorney", and there is a risk of registering their car in a familiar name. This can lead to new property disputes and legal disputes.

Constitution and residence permit regime - a step back?

The biggest criticism is that this decision contradicts the rights to freedom of movement and activity established in the Constitution. Previously, the abolition of residence permit restrictions throughout the country was recognized as a great achievement for New Uzbekistan. Now, the return of the "propiska regime" in the case of taxi drivers is causing serious discontent in society.

Who's next?

The author notes that this rule started with taxi drivers, and that it is possible that other professions will be restricted in the future. "Maybe in the near future, they will also say that hairdressers, bakers or other craftsmen can only work in their own region?" he warns the public.