The purpose of the Measures is for the implementation of the Water Law of the People's Republic of China. The Text consists of 48 articles divided into 7 Chapters: General Provisions (I); Water resources planning and development and utilization (II); Protection of water resources, waters and water engineering facilities (III); Water resources allocation (IV); Water conservation (V); Penalties (VI); Supplementary Provisions (VII). The water drawing licencing system and the system of paid use of water shall be organized and implemented by the water administrative department of the people's government at or above the county level within the scope of their functions and powers. For exploitation of underground water, unified planning must be carried out, based on the investigation and evaluation of water resources, and supervision and management shall be strengthened so as to maintain the balance of withdraw and recharge. The Measures further provide for: basin integrated planning and regional planning; protected zones for drinking water source; water pollution control and prevention measures; etc.