New tariffs for water and sewerage services will come into force in Shymkent from December 1. These changes will apply equally to residents, entrepreneurs and budget organizations of the city, but will primarily affect consumers of groups 2 and 3. The new tariffs are planned to be in effect until June 2026. Official information about this was confirmed by "Water Resources - Marketing" LLP and relevant city authorities.

The volume of water consumption by the city's population is increasing every year. The number of industrial enterprises has also increased, and the load on the infrastructure has increased. In this regard, it is said that there is a need to revise tariffs. Additional investments are needed to modernize water systems, repair treatment facilities, and introduce new technologies. Therefore, changing tariffs is a step aimed at continuing the normal operation of the industry.

What are the new tariffs?

The new tariffs were approved in two main groups:

Group 2 consumers (non-household, private business entities):

• Without tax: 604 tenge

• With tax: 677 tenge

Group 3 - for budget institutions:

• Without tax: 863 tenge

• With tax: 967 tenge

These groups include schools, kindergartens, hospitals, social facilities, and government agencies. The slightly higher tariff for them is explained by the aim of covering infrastructure costs and supporting the water system.

What is the impact on the population?

It should be noted that the change in tariffs mainly concerns non-household consumers. That is, for ordinary residents, the tariff will remain the same or the change may be very small. This is a reflection of a socially oriented policy. After all, water is a basic human need, a source of life. It is planned in such a way that it will not affect the level of well-being of society.

Shymkent is one of the most populous and rapidly developing cities in the country. Although the city's water supply system has been frequently upgraded in recent years, it still requires significant investment. The problem of water pressure, especially in new microdistricts and near high-rise buildings, has not yet been fully resolved.

From this perspective, it seems that the tariff changes are aimed primarily at increasing the responsibility of business structures, rather than burdening socially vulnerable groups. The business sector should actively participate in covering part of the costs of water supply.

Why was it necessary to increase the tariff?

According to experts, there are several reasons for the tariff change:

1. Infrastructure deterioration
   Water pipes in some areas of the city have been in use for 30-40 years. They often burst, causing accidents.

2. Rising energy costs
   The price of electricity used in water treatment and distribution stations has increased.

3. Population growth
   The number of people moving to cities is increasing every year. This means an increase in the demand for water.

4. The need to finance modernization projects
   Expanding treatment facilities, building new reservoirs, and upgrading pumping stations require significant investment.

5. Encouraging water conservation
   Increasing the tariff will encourage enterprises to use water more efficiently.

Improving water quality is the main goal

Since Shymkent is a major industrial and agglomeration center in the southern region, efficient use of water resources is of great importance. Water for the city comes mainly from underground sources and neighboring regions. Water quality monitoring is being intensified.

After the introduction of new tariffs, the following areas are expected to be developed:

• Pipe replacement and repair

• Upgrading water pressure regulation systems

• Expansion of sewage treatment plants

• Installing smart water meters

• Regular laboratory monitoring of water quality

These measures are aimed at increasing the continuity and safety of water services.

What do entrepreneurs say?

Some entrepreneurs note that the tariff increase will affect the cost of production. Especially for small businesses, costs will increase. However, the city administration claims that such a change is necessary and that businesses will benefit in the future as the infrastructure improves.

According to economists, tariff changes are a common step in world practice. In many countries, water supply systems are financed through tariffs. Most importantly, tariff increases should be accompanied by quality improvements.

What do city residents expect?

After the introduction of the new tariff, residents are expecting the following changes:

Water stagnation is reduced
Damaged pipes are repaired in a timely manner
Access to clean drinking water increases
The sewer system will be improved. The city's ecology will improve.

The main demand of the population is stable water quality and pressure. If the tariff increase allows for improved quality, the population may perceive this change as a good thing.

Conclusion

The change in water and sewerage tariffs in Shymkent is a decision aimed at modernizing the infrastructure, improving water quality, and ensuring the stable operation of the system. The establishment of tariffs until June 2026 will allow for long-term planning. In accordance with the growth and development of the city's population, water resources management should be properly and efficiently managed.

In conclusion, the tariff increase is not just an increase in costs, but an investment in the future. The main thing is to improve water quality and use it for the benefit of the population.