The Mazhilis, the Lower House of the Kazakh Parliament,
has adopted the draft of the new Water Code in the second reading, along with a
corresponding bill on the protection and use of water resources. The draft code
was developed in accordance with the instructions of President Kassym-Jomart
Tokayev. The document aims to change the approach to water resource management.
The country is introducing requirements for regular monitoring and maintenance
of hydraulic structures. A unified information system for water resource
management is set to be established, enabling real-time monitoring and forecasting
of floods and droughts. For the first time, the code introduces the concepts of
‘water security’ and ‘environmental flow’ while also expanding requirements for
the protection of water bodies, particularly small rivers and lakes. Additionally,
citizens will gain access to information on water resources. The annual National
Information Report will contain data on the condition, conservation, and use of
the country’s water resources.
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