A debate has erupted in Shymkent over the reconstruction of the Koshkarata embankment. Residents have appealed to the city mayor to reconsider the approach to improvements after the massive felling of old willows along the riverbanks began. For decades, these trees have shaped the green corridor, providing shade on hot summer days, purifying the air, and maintaining the ecosystem of this unique natural corner of the city.

According to residents, it was these willows that created the special atmosphere of Koshkarata, turning a walk along the shore into a respite from the bustle of the city. Instead of preserving the greenery, workers began removing the old trees, citing the need to build new pedestrian and bike paths, landscaped parks, and recreation areas. Residents emphasize that the young saplings planned for replacement will not be able to replace the old trees in terms of shade or environmental impact in the coming decades.

The concern is heightened by the fact that the reconstruction is being announced as part of a major infrastructure project covering several kilometers of the riverbed. The work includes bank stabilization, installation of lighting systems, and the construction of hardscape. All this looks attractive on paper, but according to residents, it comes at the cost of destroying the embankment's true treasure—the living trees that blend harmoniously into the landscape.

In their appeal, residents call for a compromise solution: to improve the area, but not through wholesale deforestation. They believe paths and playgrounds could be designed to preserve some of the perennial vegetation. After all, the true beauty of Koshkarata has always been not only its architecture but also the green banks that create the river's natural appearance.

The situation at Koshkarat has its own history. In previous years, river improvements were carried out through cleanup days and local environmental campaigns. For example, residents, volunteers, and youth organizations personally removed trash, trimmed dead branches, and tended to plants. This format helped preserve the natural fabric of the area, emphasizing the value of old plantings. People felt a sense of belonging and pride in preserving nature's legacy.

In contrast to that experience, the current reconstruction more closely resembles a construction project focused on the exterior. Where previously every tree was preserved, the builders are now following the principle of "first clearing, then replanting." The problem is that trees can't be replaced as easily as a streetlight or a tile: it takes decades for a young tree to reach maturity and provide adequate shade.

The public reaction to the incident was intense. Dozens of comments with photos of felled willows appeared on social media. Some residents are outraged that the city is losing its unique natural heritage for the sake of "concrete and paving." Others are trying to find a positive, saying that new benches, lighting, and paths are also needed. But the general sentiment is that the government must find a balance between infrastructure development and environmental conservation.

Environmentalists also remind us that the trees along Koshkarata not only provide shade but also perform important functions—strengthening the soil, protecting against erosion, and improving the microclimate. Their destruction could negatively impact the area's ecological balance, especially in Shymkent's hot climate, where every bit of shade and every bit of green space are doubly valuable.

Comparing the current situation with past experience, one can see that previously, landscaping was built "by the people and for the people." The focus was on preserving what existed and gradually improving it. Now, however, the approach seems more mechanical—as if nature can be replaced with concrete elements and young trees that will only become a full-fledged part of the landscape decades from now.

Residents' appeal to the mayor is not only a request to reconsider the project but also a signal that society has become more sensitive to environmental issues. Today, simply building beautiful paths is no longer enough. It's important to demonstrate that the city government listens to residents and takes their opinions into account, especially when it comes to symbols like Koshkarata.

Preserving some of the mature willows would be an example of a reasonable compromise: the city would gain new recreation areas and modern amenities, while also preserving the natural character of the embankment. This solution would demonstrate that Shymkent is able to combine development and respect for nature, rather than pit one against the other.

The story of Koshkarata once again raises the question of what modern cities should look like. It's not just buildings, roads, and lighting fixtures, but also a careful attention to natural elements, without which it's impossible to create a truly comfortable environment. Shymkent has the opportunity to demonstrate that it can be a city of the future while preserving the living memory of the ancient trees that grew on its soil.