Core Viewpoint - The State Council of China has announced the "Water Supply Regulations," which will take effect on June 1, 2026, aimed at promoting high-quality development in the water supply sector and ensuring water supply safety and service levels [1][2]. Chapter Summaries Chapter 1: General Principles - The regulations aim to enhance the quality of water supply services and ensure safety, adapting to economic and social development needs [3]. - The regulations apply to all activities related to water supply, including urban and rural water supply systems [3]. - Development in the water supply sector should align with national policies, emphasizing public welfare and water conservation [3]. - Local governments are responsible for ensuring water supply safety and must include water supply development in their economic and social planning [3][4]. Chapter 2: Water Sources - Local governments must plan and construct water sources based on regional development and water resource conditions [6]. - The construction of water sources should integrate surface and groundwater, and promote the use of seawater desalination in coastal areas [10][11]. - Measures must be taken to monitor and protect drinking water sources, ensuring compliance with national standards [7]. Chapter 3: Water Supply Engineering - Local governments are tasked with planning water supply engineering to ensure coordination with urban development [13]. - Water supply projects must comply with legal and regulatory standards, and only qualified entities can undertake project tasks [14]. - Quality checks and proper documentation are required for hidden works in water supply projects [15]. Chapter 4: Water Supply Operations and Services - Water supply units must be legally registered and meet specific operational criteria, including having qualified personnel and facilities [17]. - Service agreements between water supply units and authorities should define service standards and quality evaluations [18]. - Water supply units are required to maintain transparency in service processes and provide accessible information to the public [19]. Chapter 5: Management and Protection of Water Supply Facilities - Water supply units must maintain and operate facilities according to national standards, ensuring safety and regular inspections [28]. - Local governments are responsible for designating safety protection zones around water supply facilities to prevent harmful activities [30]. - Any modifications to water supply facilities must be coordinated with the water supply unit to ensure safety [31]. Chapter 6: Emergency Management and Response - Local governments must develop emergency plans for water supply and conduct regular drills [36]. - Water supply units are required to have their own emergency plans and ensure readiness for potential risks [37]. - In the event of emergencies affecting water supply, immediate actions must be taken to ensure the continuity of service [38]. Chapter 7: Legal Responsibilities - Penalties are established for non-compliance with the regulations, including fines for failure to maintain water quality and safety standards [41][42]. - Local governments and relevant departments are held accountable for negligence in water supply management [47]. Chapter 8: Supplementary Provisions - The regulations will replace the previous "Urban Water Supply Regulations" and are aimed at standardizing rural water supply management [49][50].