Mongolia constructs new city of Kharkhorum: revival of ancient capital
Mongolia has commenced the construction of Kharkhorum, a new city poised to become the nation's second largest after the capital, Ulaanbaatar. Situated 300 km west of Ulaanbaatar, in the Orkhon River valley, the project serves a dual purpose: to alleviate congestion in the overpopulated Ulaanbaatar and to revitalize Mongolia's historical heritage.
The site selection is deliberate, as it is the very location of Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan. Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh underscored the importance of recreating the city's appearance from the era of the Great Khans.
Kharkhorum is designed to accommodate 500,000 residents and is expected to create 285,000 jobs, making it a pivotal center for regional development. The project encompasses extensive infrastructure construction and places particular emphasis on greening initiatives. Plans include planting over 1 million trees across an area of 1,500 hectares, thereby creating a "garden city" amidst the steppe.
The construction of Kharkhorum has received legislative backing, with 189,000 hectares of land allocated, and the program's completion is scheduled for 2029. This project is part of Mongolia's broader development strategy, aimed at improving the quality of life and fostering economic growth, including a significant increase in tourism revenue to $8 billion by 2030.
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