Law on unions (associations) of water users (2002).

The present Law determines the legal status and organizational basis for the establishment and operation of water user associations as non-commercial organizations to operate and maintain irrigation systems in rural areas in the public interest. The Law consists of 5 Chapters that contain 30 articles. The principal tasks of a water users associations (WUA) are: 1) operation and maintenance of irrigation system within the WUA service area and distribution water to WUA members on the basis of annual agreements; 2) water distribution on a contractual basis to persons who own or use irrigated land within the WUA service area who are not members of the WUA; 3) rehabilitation and improvement of irrigation systems within the WUA service area and undertaking construction works as necessary; 4) purchase irrigation water from a water supplier or, where feasible and subject to the necessary water use licences, abstraction water directly from a river, lake or other natural water body or from groundwater reserves for distribution within the WUA service area; 5) procure, substitute, operate and maintain irrigation equipment; 6) manage water delivery and prevent water pollution; 7) undertake land improvement works; 8) train WUA members in irrigation techniques and promote the use of new techniques and technology.