The new manual consolidates, gathers and updates the DGA’s criteria on multiple matters with the intention of being up to date with respect to climate change.
The Ministry of Public Works and its Directorate General of Water (DGA), has officially approved the new “Manual of Standards and Procedures for the Administration of Water Resources”.
This important update seeks to improve the management and administration of the country’s water resources in response to the increased demands and environmental challenges resulting from climate change and water scarcity.
The manual consists of 19 chapters, which detail clear and precise procedures for the constitution and exercise of surface and groundwater use rights. It also establishes rules for the protection of water sources and the approval of hydraulic infrastructure projects.
Rodrigo Sanhueza Bravo, Director General of Aguas, highlighted the importance of this approval: “This manual is a significant step towards a more efficient and sustainable water governance. It will allow us to ensure the availability and quality of water for all the country’s inhabitants, aligning us with Sustainable Development Goal No. 6 to ensure sustainable water management and sanitation for all.”
This update is a result of the recent reforms to the Water Code that prioritize human consumption and seek to balance the preservation function of water resources with the need to protect the environment.
Thus, a review and update of DGA procedures has been required to keep up with the new legal requirements. Consequently, the manual defines clear responsibilities for the central and regional units of the DGA, thus improving efficiency in the processing of applications and the management of water resources.
It also establishes technical and legal criteria for the granting, regularization and transfer of water rights, in addition to considering environmental aspects crucial to the sustainability of water resources.
In this way, the new Manual consolidates, gathers and updates the DGA’s criteria in multiple matters with the intention of being up to date with respect to climate change and water scarcity [Download manual here].
For more information on these issues, please contact our Public Law and Regulated Markets team:
Antonio Rubilar | Partner | arubilar@az.cl
Federico Rodríguez | Director Energy and Infrastructure | frodriguezm@az.cl
María José Campeny | Senior Associate | mcampeny@az.cl
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