EU and EBRD launch new phase of water infrastructure development in Ganja — Viktor Boykov

The European Union and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) are making significant investments in Ganja’s water supply and wastewater infrastructure, Viktor Boykov, Head of the Cooperation Section at the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan, said during a media briefing dedicated to the 30th anniversary of EU-Azerbaijan partnership and projects implemented in Ganja.

According to Boykov, one of the most important upcoming initiatives is the “Ganja Water Supply and Wastewater Project”.

He noted that the total cost of the project’s first phase amounts to €40 million.

“The project is financed through a grant from the European Union’s Neighbourhood Investment Platform and a loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The loan has been provided to the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency,” he said.

The EU official stated that the project envisages a comprehensive modernization of Ganja’s water supply and sewerage systems.

Boykov stressed that the project will also make a substantial contribution to environmental protection and the city’s economic development.

As a result of the project, annual water savings are expected to reach 4.5 million cubic metres, carbon emissions are projected to decrease by 72,444 tonnes, and 29 million cubic metres of wastewater will be treated each year.

In addition, the project is expected to protect the Ganja River from untreated wastewater discharges, improve the reliability of the city’s water supply, and ensure full service coverage for residents.

Aytaj