site.btaPM: Government to Increase Capital of Irrigation Systems to Restore Pyasachnik Dam Pumping Station

The capital of Irrigation Systems EAD will be increased by nearly BGN 27 million to restore the pumping station of the Pyasachnik Dam, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said during a working meeting with the National Grain Producers Association (NGPA), the Government Information Service reported on Monday. The measure will be put to the Cabinet for review and approval on Wednesday.

Zhelyazkov and Agriculture and Food Minister Georgi Tahov reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting grain producers and ensuring sustainable and competitive agriculture. They outlined ongoing measures, including progress on legislative changes concerning land use, leases, water management, protection of agricultural property and cooperatives.

The discussion also covered the modernisation and capitalisation of Irrigation Systems EAD, the increase in funding under the Strategic Plan, access to water from the Danube, reducing administrative burdens and preparing for the timely payment of subsidies to farmers.

Progress on new working groups and concepts in key legislative areas was also presented, including procedures for finalising land restitution, revising lease arrangements, legalising water facilities and strengthening control over water resources. Zhelyazkov noted that some of the requested reforms have been pending for more than 20 years.

The meeting also addressed mechanisms for ensuring stable financing of hydro-melioration infrastructure and the need for clear criteria for agricultural branch organisations, the statement said.