Order of the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation No. 163-НК “On approval of the Model Rules for the Use of Water Resources of Reservoirs and the Rules for the Technical Operation and Improvement of Reservoirs”.

This Order aims to establish a legal framework for the utilization, safety, and maintenance of reservoirs. The overarching policy goal is to ensure the sustainable and safe management of water reservoirs, encompassing their use for various purposes such as drinking, agriculture, industry, hydropower, and environmental protection, while safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. Key measures include the approval of model regulations that specify procedures for the initial filling, water level management, and use of reservoirs for different purposes, emphasizing the importance of systematic monitoring and compliance with design parameters. The regulation mandates the development of operational rules within construction projects, periodic adjustments based on operational experience, and the establishment of flood commissions to oversee reservoir filling and safety during hydrological events. Additionally, the regulations prescribe routine inspections, technical surveys, and maintenance activities, with responsibilities assigned to reservoir owners and operators, including the development of technical documentation and safety measures. The document also emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness, safety reserves, and adherence to design standards to prevent accidents. Implementation mechanisms involve annual planning, the formation of working commissions for inspections, and the maintenance of detailed records and documentation, such as inspection logs, safety certificates, and technical passports. Responsibilities are distributed among owners, project organizations, local authorities, and water basin inspections, with specific timelines for inspections and updates, including a minimum of quarterly technical reviews and annual comprehensive assessments. The regulation also specifies procedures for decommissioning reservoirs and updating operational standards, ensuring continuous oversight and adaptation to changing conditions. Stakeholder involvement is emphasized through coordination with state authorities, local bodies, and voluntary associations, with procedural requirements for notification and reporting to relevant agencies.