Investment in Kazakhstan's water sector since September 2023 has amounted to around KZT 1 trillion. The country is currently modernising more than 4,600 km of irrigation networks, and has also prepared amendments restricting the use of drinking water at car washes.
HOW MUCH WAS INVESTED IN THE WATER SECTOR
According to the government, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov presented the results of water sector reform at a government meeting. One of the key changes was the adoption of a new Water Code.
According to the minister, since September 2023, fixed capital investment in the water sector has reached around KZT 1 trillion.
Over this period, Kazakhstan has reconstructed more than 1,400 km of canals, five reservoirs and eight hydraulic structures.
WHAT WORK IS BEING CARRIED OUT ON IRRIGATION NETWORKS
More than 4,600 km of irrigation networks are currently being modernised in the country. Work on 964 km is planned to be completed by the end of 2026.
According to the ministry's assessment, the implementation of these projects will improve water supply to around 200,000 hectares of irrigated land.
WHAT RESTRICTIONS HAVE BEEN PREPARED FOR CAR WASHES
The ministry has also prepared amendments to the Water Code providing for restrictions on the use of centralised drinking water for the technological processes of car wash stations.
As Nurzhan Nurzhigitov explained, the changes were developed as part of further improving water legislation.
However, the specific conditions of the restrictions, the timing of their introduction and possible exceptions are not specified in the statement provided. The amendments are still at the drafting stage.
