Residents of Makhachkala pointed out to the authorities the unresolved issue of chaotic construction in the city.
The problem of chaotic construction in Makhachkala has remained unresolved for a long time, and high-rise buildings are already blocking the view of the historic lighthouse and creating additional strain on the infrastructure, noted the residents of Makhachkala. They criticized the authorities for inaction and the ongoing destruction of the architectural appearance of the city.
As reported by "Caucasian Knot", chaotic and unauthorized construction has long been a pressing issue in Makhachkala. On June 30, it became known that the Supreme Court of Dagestan obliged the owner to demolish at their own expense a six-story frame building in the Primorsky residential area of the city, built without the necessary permits.
Back in February 2018, the then head of Dagestan, in response to criticism of the city's architecture, stated that all illegally constructed objects in the city would be demolished. However, in January 2023, residents called the issue of unauthorized constructions unresolved and pointed out that illegal construction in the city continues. In October 2025, investigators initiated a case of negligence against officials of the Makhachkala administration: according to the investigation, after identifying an unauthorized construction and compiling a report by the city commission, the officials did not take measures to demolish it. On August 16 of this year, the head of Dagestan Fedor Shchukin reported that a Coordinating Council had been established in the republic to address the issue of unauthorized constructions. Local residents, commenting on his report on social media, doubted the effectiveness of the new body.
Activist of the "Our City" movement Madina Ibrahimova pointed out that due to the chaotic construction, the lighthouse, which was previously visible from almost all sides, is now hidden from view.
"And then we look for someone to blame for the destruction of the architectural appearance of our capital. And this is happening here and now. While we remain silent and 'do not notice', the city is losing its face. Such chaotic construction is killing the city. This is not development; it is destruction. And it’s not just about aesthetics – it’s a huge burden on the networks – electricity, water, sewage. On schools, kindergartens, clinics," wrote Ibrahimova on October 9 in her Telegram channel.
The chaotic construction of the city has already affected areas near historical landmarks, noted Makhachkala resident Osman.
"Do the authorities really not see this ugly building on the mountainside? Who gave permission for it? And then, if a landslide happens, they will ask why it happened?" said Osman to a correspondent of "Caucasian Knot".
The construction of a high-rise building near the lighthouse is likely illegal, and the building has already blocked the view of the city symbol, noted Makhachkala resident Albina.
"The lighthouse is a unique symbol of Makhachkala. Why did the authorities allow what is likely illegal construction of a high-rise building near it? In our childhood, we often admired the lighthouse and its lights from the city, but now the building is no longer visible," said Albina to a correspondent of "Caucasian Knot".
The lighthouse has been operating since 1866 and is one of the popular spots for tourists, reminded tour guide Rashid.
"If there was no time to walk to it, I used to show it from the center of the city. Now the lighthouse is not visible. It is very sad that the authorities allow such construction and the destruction of the city's history," said Rashid to a correspondent of "Caucasian Knot".
A significant number of appeals regarding land issues have been received from residents of Dagestan. For decades, lands and various properties have been unjustifiably transferred into private hands in the republic, stated the acting head of Dagestan, Fedor Shchukin.
"The problem is widespread and extremely acute. It is unacceptable for private individuals to illegally seize sports grounds, stadiums, social and recreational areas. Historical and cultural symbols of Dagestani cities should not be obscured by chaotic construction approved through opaque schemes. The social and cultural space should serve all Dagestanis, not the interests of individuals," wrote Shchukin on October 9 in his Telegram channel.
A working group has been formed to verify the legality of the transfer of land and properties into private ownership, he added.