In a recent government session, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov outlined Kazakhstan’s ambitious plans for water sector modernization. The government will implement 98 projects in 2025 with a total investment of KZT 173.7 billion ($354 million)—a 73% increase from the previous year.
Strategic Vision for Water Sector Development
These projects align with Kazakhstan’s long-term water sector strategy, outlined in two key documents adopted in 2024:
- Concept of Water Resources Management System Development (2024-2030)
- Comprehensive Water Sector Development Plan (2024-2028)
These plans focus on large-scale modernization, integrating 160 diverse measures with funding from national, local, and external sources.
Key 2025 Water Sector Initiatives
1️⃣ Reservoir Construction & Reconstruction
- Four new reservoirs—Akmola, Kalguty, Karauziak, and Bolshoi Uzen—will be built to improve water management, prevent flooding, and address water shortages.
2️⃣ Canal Modernization
- Over 3,400 kilometers of irrigation canals will be upgraded across six oblasts, incorporating digital monitoring for improved efficiency.
3️⃣ Water Supply Improvements
- Completion of 12 group water pipeline projects to provide quality drinking water to 153 villages, benefiting over 423,000 people.
- 52 settlements will be connected to the centralized water supply system.
4️⃣ Sustainable Water Management
- These efforts will help save 10 billion cubic meters of water by 2030, boosting water security, agricultural productivity, and environmental sustainability.
International Funding & Infrastructure Development
Minister Nurzhigitov highlighted that KZT 30.9 billion ($63 million) in funding from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) will support these projects. Key facilities such as Turan Su and Almatyoblvodkhoz will undergo modernization.
By the end of 2025, over 1,900 kilometers of irrigation canals will be operational, enhancing 256,000 hectares of agricultural land. These initiatives mark a significant step toward modernizing Kazakhstan’s water infrastructure and ensuring sustainable resource management for the future.