Irrigation Tariffs and Reforms Discussed with Regional Leaders
“It is important that every reform being implemented is adapted to the needs of municipalities and regions,” said Davit Songulashvili.
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, together with Levan Zautashvili and Gigla Tamazashvili, held a working meeting with state representatives from various regions and mayors of municipalities.
Particular attention during the meeting was given to the irrigation water tariff set by the Georgian National Energy and Water Supply Regulatory Commission, as well as to the new subsidy scheme developed by the state, aimed at supporting farmers and strengthening the agricultural sector. The participants discussed in detail the effective implementation of these mechanisms and ways to improve their accessibility for farmers.
“The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture is implementing reforms in various areas. It is important that these reforms are discussed with regional and municipal leaders. Meetings with regions are being conducted progressively. I would like to thank the Ministry of Regional Development for organizing a very effective format. It is crucial that each reform is максимально adapted to the needs of municipalities and regions, as these reforms are based on issues raised during meetings with the population. The responses have been shaped precisely on the basis of summarizing these issues,” Davit Songulashvili stated.
During the meeting, participants also discussed key issues related to the upcoming irrigation season, including infrastructure readiness, water resource management, and ensuring uninterrupted water supply across regions. Attention was also drawn to existing challenges within the melioration system that require timely response.
The importance of coordinated efforts between central and local authorities was emphasized, as this plays a key role in the development of the agricultural sector, the protection of farmers’ interests, and regional economic growth. It was noted that such working meetings will contribute to the effective planning and implementation of specific projects.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Ministers Giorgi Tskrialashvili and Lasha Dolidze, Head of the National Forestry Agency of Georgia Besik Amiranashvili, Head of the Environmental Supervision Department Levan Jgharkava, and Director of the Rural Development Agency of Georgia Zurab Gozalishvili.
