Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have reached an agreement to install meters aimed at accurately measuring the volume of water consumed by both countries, QazMonitor reports citing the press service of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation.
How it works: Kazakhstan will install meters on the territory of Uzbekistan and vice versa. The countries will exchange information on water consumption online. Kazakhstan will have access to data collected in Uzbekistan, while the Uzbek side will have access to data collected in Kazakhstan.
Why it matters: Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, stated that the installation of meters will enable real-time monitoring of water consumption by both countries. Additionally, plans are underway to commence negotiations in April for similar projects with other neighboring countries.
What's next: The experts from both countries are determining the specific locations for the installation of water meters. Negotiations are also ongoing with international organizations to engage them in the project.
The big picture: Earlier, the Ministry developed a draft of the new Water Code, prioritizing efficient use of water resources, intensive introduction of water-saving technologies, and water reuse systems. This draft has been submitted for consideration to the Mazhilis, a lower house of Parliament.
