The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) together with the Government of Switzerland provided financing for the new wastewater plant in the second largest city in Kyrgyzstan.
The EBRD extended a 3 million euro sovereign loan and Switzerland a 5.05 million euro grant for the project, undertaken by the Osh Water Company, a municipal water and wastewater operator.
The works included an upgrade of existing facilities as well as the installation of brand new equipment.
The modernization program will help the city provide more reliable services, cut water losses and operating costs, and protect public health and the environment, according to the report.
As part of the project, the city will also renew leaking water pipes, obsolete pumping stations, install water meters in the pilot area and repair the sewerage network which currently covers only 60% of the city.
To date, the EBRD has invested 630 million euro in Kyrgyzstan. The bank focuses on fostering sustainable growth, supporting small and medium-sided enterprises; promoting the sustainability of public utilities, strengthening the financial sector and supporting critical infrastructure. (Trend/Business World Magazine)