Uzbekistan, Tashkent, 12 June / Trend corr. T.Jukov / The well-known architectural monuments and historical centre in the old Khiva underwent an attack of termites. The Zoology Institute at the Academy of Science of Uzbekistan released the information that the oldest monument Juma Mosque faced a serious danger of destruction.
Juma Mosque was constructed in the end of 10th century, and like other historical monuments of Uzbekistan was included into the list of the world heritage of UNESCO. The architectural composition of the Mosque includes 212 wood columns, which are decorated with art carvings.
The scientists of the Zoology Institute managed to prevent the attack with efficient enticement to struggle against termites. Natalya Lebedeva, a candidate of biological science in the Institute, stated that Uzbek scientists have already prepared certain enticements, which contain dangerous chemicals for termites, as well as pathogenic bacteria and microscopic fungi. Exploration is being held jointly with the science and exploration centre at the Florida University (US).
At present, the work has been carried out to prevent attack of termites on other historical architectural monuments in Khiva, which remained from the period of the Great Silk Way. According to the official information, 31 monuments out of 57 underwent attack of termites in Khiva. Trees alongside, the road from Beruni residential area to Nukus area, are also practically infected with termites. Special Services have been created at the Emergency Situations Ministry to struggle against termites. Propagation of termites dated to the end of 1980s due to global warming and drying of the Aral Sea.
Khiva is a city-museum under an open sky. The middle age architectural monuments have been kept in this museum.
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