07.12.2022

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has become acquainted with the presentation on measures aimed at protecting groundwater.

Groundwater is one of the important sources of fresh water for nature and human being. Due to the irrational use, there is a depletion of this resource. In some areas of Navoiy, Samarkand, Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Namangan, Fergana and Andijan regions, the groundwater level has dropped for 5 meters.

Despite this, a drilling of unauthorized boreholes, uncontrolled and unaccounted for use of groundwater continues. In this regard, by the instructions of the President, the proposals have been developed to strengthen the protection of groundwater and streamline its use.

Hence, it is proposed to introduce a moratorium on drilling boreholes and on the use of groundwater in areas where the groundwater level has dropped by more than 5 meters.

At present, 90% of boreholes are not equipped with water meters, therefore it is impossible to keep accurate records of groundwater flow. In this regard, a requirement is being established for groundwater users to equip their facilities with water meters by January 1, 2024.

Furthermore, from April 1, 2023, a system for issuing permits will be introduced not for each borehole separately, but for drilling activities as a whole. A geological exploration work will be carried out to fully re-evaluate the reserves of the groundwater sources, the level of which is declining.

Another innovation is the establishment of the State Geological Monitoring Service to monitor the state of groundwater and create a unified system of protection against hazardous geological processes.

In general, the proposed measures will serve to prevent the depletion of groundwater and the recurrence of such a situation in other regions.

The President approved these proposals and gave instructions on curbing irresponsible water use and strengthening discipline in this area. He emphasized the importance of preserving the fresh water sources and creating long-lasting reserves for the population.