Kazakhstan Parliament Approves New Water Code and AmendmentsKazakhstan’s Majilis (lower house of parliament) has approved the Senate-endorsed amendments to the Water Code and the law "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts on the Protection and Use of Water Resources." The legislation is now set to be signed by the President.The new Water Code aims to protect ecosystems through the efficient management of water resources. It introduces the concept of "water security," focusing on protecting the population from water scarcity and pollution risks. The code also outlines the creation of a National Information System for monitoring water resources management as part of digitalization efforts.Key provisions of the Code include a gradual transition to water reuse and recycling, requiring industrial water users to develop five-year plans for implementing these systems. Special water use permits will be granted to industries only if these plans are in place.The Code also mandates multi-factor inspections for potentially hazardous hydraulic structures and outlines conditions for restricting ownership rights to water and hydraulic facilities if their technical condition is unsatisfactory and safety measures are not taken.In line with the President’s instructions to restore the National Hydrogeological Service, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation will take over responsibilities for eliminating and conserving abandoned self-flowing emergency hydrogeological wells and conducting exploration for underground water. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX