Order of the Acting Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation No. 154-НК “On approval of the Rules for reducing permitted volumes of water use in the event of failure by water users to implement plans for reducing water losses and introducing the best available technologies”.

This Order primarily addresses rules established by the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation concerning the reduction of permitted water use in cases where water users fail to implement plans aimed at reducing water losses and adopting best available technologies. It emphasizes the importance of water conservation, reduction of non-productive water losses, and technological modernization. The policy aims to enforce compliance through regulatory measures, ensuring sustainable water resource management aligned with national water use permits. Key measures include the mandatory submission of annual reports by water users on the implementation of water loss reduction and technological improvement plans, with specific reporting formats and deadlines. The document stipulates that if water users do not fulfill their planned activities, their permitted water use will be reduced proportionally, with a minimum reduction of 20% if multiple activities are unimplemented. The process involves analysis by basin water inspections, discussions and decisions by basin councils, and approval by the designated water authority. These steps are designed to ensure accountability and enforce compliance, with clear procedures for proposing, discussing, and approving water use reductions. Implementation mechanisms involve a structured procedural framework, including reporting deadlines (by January 10 each year), analysis and discussion by relevant authorities, and formal approval processes. The rules specify institutional responsibilities, such as the basin water inspections and the water inspectorates, and establish timelines for decision-making and communication with water users. Enforcement is facilitated through formal notifications, adjustments to water use permits, and documented justifications for any non-acceptance of proposals, ensuring a systematic approach to compliance and resource management.