Kazakhstan Begins Developing Groundwater Management Concept for 2027–2040
Astana, The Gulf Observer: Kazakhstan has launched the development of a Concept for the Integrated Use and Management of Groundwater Resources for 2027–2040, as part of efforts to establish a modern and sustainable framework for managing the country’s groundwater resources, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation said.
The document is being prepared by the ministry’s Department of Groundwater. An interagency working group has been established as part of the process, while expert consultations have been held and proposals from government institutions and industry specialists incorporated into the draft.
The next stage will involve publishing the draft concept and coordinating it with relevant government agencies.
According to the ministry, the new concept is expected to improve the efficiency of groundwater use, ensure more sustainable water supplies for settlements and economic sectors, and contribute to the conservation and replenishment of the country’s water resources.
Vice Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Talgat Momyshev said Kazakhstan’s groundwater resources have been studied, but detailed exploration remains insufficient. A number of promising areas require additional hydrogeological studies, reassessment and further exploration to determine their actual potential.
State balance data indicates that Kazakhstan’s exploitable groundwater reserves amount to approximately 43.2 million cubic metres per day. However, current utilisation stands at only around 1.5 million cubic metres per day, equivalent to approximately 3.6 percent of the available volume.
The ministry said development of the long-term concept will establish future approaches to the exploration, development and sustainable use of groundwater, which remains one of Kazakhstan’s important sources of water supply.
The initiative is expected to strengthen the country’s long-term water security by promoting more effective resource assessment, responsible groundwater development and sustainable management practices through 2040.
