The government approved a draft law on river restoration

The document simplifies the identification and dismantling of hydraulic structures that impede the natural flow of rivers and establishes the concept of ecological runoff in accordance with European requirements.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a draft law aimed at restoring the free flow of rivers and preserving their water content. This was reported on the website of the Ministry of Economy.

The draft law creates a mechanism for identifying objects that impede the natural flow, in particular, hydraulic structures that negatively affect the state of rivers and aquatic ecosystems.

The procedure for their registration and making decisions on their further use or dismantling is simplified. The concept of ecological runoff is separately established – the minimum volume of water necessary for the normal functioning of river ecosystems.

“Today, the issue of preserving the water content of rivers and restoring their free flow is one of the key ones for the water security of Ukraine. Excessive regulation of rivers leads to the degradation of ecosystems, deterioration of water quality and depletion of water resources. Our task is to form a modern water resources management system that will meet European approaches and ensure a balance between environmental needs and the needs of communities,” said Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture Iryna Ovcharenko.

Currently, more than 30% of surface water bodies are negatively affected due to overregulation and changes in natural channels. The current procedure for dismantling abandoned facilities is complex and lengthy, which complicates the restoration of ecosystems.

Earlier this year, the Shipping Administration reported on inspections on the Danube and other rivers.