On March 18, a project of a new Water Code with accompanying amendments on the protection and use of water resources was presented in the Majilis. However, some deputies criticized the presenter's speech and the Water Code itself.
Deputy Azhar Sagyndykov noted significant differences between the project and its original concept. She expressed concerns about the lack of coherence and incorporation of global water laws into the code. The first vice-minister of water resources and irrigation, Bolat Bekniyaz, acknowledged the need for a separate law on water supply and wastewater management.
Despite the explanation, Azhar Sagyndykov questioned the effectiveness of budget allocation for law development. Another deputy, Bakytzhan Bazarbek, criticized the Ministry's work on the Water Code, calling the presentation the weakest among all legislative projects.
Bazarbek raised doubts about the legitimacy of the Water Code project, citing the lack of public hearings and expert evaluation. Vice-Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mansur Oshurbayev clarified that public hearings were conducted from February 6 to March 5.
The main goal of the new Water Code is to achieve and maintain a safe level of water use, supporting sustainable economic development, improving citizens' living conditions, and preserving the environment. The code emphasizes water conservation and efficient resource management, requiring water users to implement water-saving technologies and reuse systems.
The new Water Code aims to regulate water usage in agriculture and industry, emphasizing the importance of water recycling systems. It is designed to ensure responsible water management and environmental protection for the well-being of present and future generations.
