Proposed Water Code in Uzbekistan to boost resource management and efficiency

Deputies of the Oliy Majlis considered the draft Water Code in the first reading, according to the press service of the Legislative Chamber.

The Code is intended to become a unified legal document in the field of water and water use. It clarifies the powers, duties, and functions of the Cabinet of Ministers, state bodies, and local self-government bodies in regulating water relations.

Water fund lands are planned to be transferred to the balance of the Ministry of Water Resources and its regional organizations. These include, in particular, the territories of lakes, rivers, streams, and other natural water sources.

The draft code outlines the conditions for introducing public-private partnership mechanisms in water management. Conditions for issuing permits for water use will be simplified.

One of the main principles of the work of water suppliers is defined as profitability. The Code indicates the need to ensure the recovery of costs for water supply.

Also, the Code introduces direct action norms instead of referral norms. With its adoption, a number of Cabinet resolutions, their approved provisions, and procedures will be repealed.

As noted at the meeting, the adoption of the Code should improve the management of water resources and the efficiency of their use. Along with increasing the responsibility of suppliers and consumers, the document is designed to stimulate investment in the water sector and its modernization.