In a recent government session, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov reported strides in the modernization of Kazakhstan's water sector. He outlined the government's plans to implement 98 projects in 2025, with a total investment of KZT 173.7bn ($354mn), marking a 73% increase from the previous year.
The projects align with Kazakhstan's long-term vision for the water sector, as outlined in two key documents adopted in 2024: the Concept of Water Resources Management System Development for 2024-2030 and the Comprehensive Water Sector Development Plan for 2024-2028. These documents focus on large-scale modernisation, with 160 diverse measures involving investments from national, local, and extra-budgetary sources.
Key highlights of the 2025 water sector projects include:
- Reservoir Construction and Reconstruction: Four new reservoirs, including Akmola, Kalguty, Karauziak, and Bolshoi Uzen, will be constructed to improve water management, prevent flooding, and address water deficits in several regions.
- Canal Modernisation: More than 3,400 kilometers of irrigation canals will undergo modernisation, with elements of digitalisation being integrated into the system across six oblasts.
- Water Supply Improvements: The ministry aims to complete 12 group water pipeline projects by the end of 2025, providing access to quality drinking water for 153 villages, benefiting over 423,000 people. Additionally, 52 settlements will be connected to the centralised water supply system.
- Sustainable Water Management: The construction and reconstruction efforts will result in the creation of significant water storage, with an estimated 10bn cubic metres of water to be saved by 2030. This will enhance water security, agricultural productivity, and environmental sustainability.
Minister Nurzhigitov highlighted the importance of the project funding, including contributions from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), which total KZT 30.9bn ($63mn). The funding will also support the modernisation of key facilities such as the Turan Su and Almatyoblvodkhoz enterprises.
The plans for 2025 are part of a broader strategy that aims to modernise Kazakhstan’s water infrastructure, ensuring the country can meet its growing needs while mitigating environmental risks. By the end of the year, more than 1,900 kilometers of irrigation canals will be put into operation, enhancing the irrigation system across 256,000 hectares of land.
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