Law on unions (associations) of water users (2002). Country/Territory Kyrgyzstan Document type Legislation Date 2002 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Water Keyword Water users' associations Water supply Non-governmental entity Irrigation Freshwater pollution Pollution control Geographical area Asia, Central Asia, CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States), Europe and Central Asia, Landlocked Developing Nations, North Asia Entry into force notes The present Law enters into force on the date of its official publication. Abstract The present Law determines the legal status and organizational basis for the establishment and operation of water user associations as non-commercial organizations to operate and maintain irrigation systems in rural areas in the public interest. The Law consists of 5 Chapters that contain 30 articles. The principal tasks of a water users associations (WUA) are: 1) operation and maintenance of irrigation system within the WUA service area and distribution water to WUA members on the basis of annual agreements; 2) water distribution on a contractual basis to persons who own or use irrigated land within the WUA service area who are not members of the WUA; 3) rehabilitation and improvement of irrigation systems within the WUA service area and undertaking construction works as necessary; 4) purchase irrigation water from a water supplier or, where feasible and subject to the necessary water use licences, abstraction water directly from a river, lake or other natural water body or from groundwater reserves for distribution within the WUA service area; 5) procure, substitute, operate and maintain irrigation equipment; 6) manage water delivery and prevent water pollution; 7) undertake land improvement works; 8) train WUA members in irrigation techniques and promote the use of new techniques and technology. Full text English