Kazakh President signs law on special status of Turkistan

Kazakh President signs law on special status of Turkistan

Today, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law granting special status to Turkistan. The document aims to protect the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and regulate archaeological and restoration work in the city. The law also introduces restrictions on building height and architectural style within the protected zone and regulates the creation of a comfortable environment for residents and tourists. It stipulates the introduction of a unified architectural style to preserve Turkistan’s historical appearance. To ensure effective management, it is envisaged to expand the powers of the mayor’s office and maslikhat (local representative body). The latter will have the authority to approve urban planning regulations and the city’s design code, while the local authorities will oversee the preservation of historical and cultural heritage and promote traditional crafts.