As part of the state program aimed at improving access to clean drinking water in the villages of Kyrgyzstan, work has begun on updating and constructing new water supply systems. The Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, Erlis Akunbekov, reported on large-scale projects that cover most regions of the republic. However, experts warn that it is necessary to revise the existing tariff policy to maintain the new facilities.
An analysis of the current situation shows that the tariffs set in rural areas do not cover the costs of servicing and repairing water supply systems. This leads to a lack of funds for maintenance, which, in turn, causes equipment failures and interruptions in water supply.
In light of the above, the authorities are considering the possibility of adjusting tariffs to align them with the actual costs of providing services. Proper price regulation will ensure regular repairs and effective operation of water supply systems in the long term.
At the same time, the authorities assure that the interests of citizens will be protected. According to current legislation, if the new tariffs turn out to be lower than the cost price, the shortfall will be compensated through subsidies from local or republican budgets. The same mechanism is provided for privileged categories of the population. This will help maintain the accessibility of water supply while simultaneously improving its quality.
The Ministry also calls on residents to consume resources responsibly. The agency reminds that clean water is a scarce resource, and careful treatment of it is the key to reliable water supply for all.
