Over 450,000 people in Kyrgyzstan will gain access to clean water

Implementation of the ‘Universal Access to Water Supply and Sanitation (Phase 1)’ programme has begun in Kyrgyzstan. As part of the project, it is planned to provide 126 rural settlements in the Osh, Chui and Issyk-Kul regions with safe drinking water and modern wastewater services.

It is expected that, as a result of the programme, more than 450,000 people will gain access to clean water.

A coordination meeting was held in the Sokuluk District of the Chui Region to discuss the establishment of a specialised municipal enterprise — a district drinking water supply and wastewater services provider (DWS).

It is planned to establish such enterprises in eight districts of Kyrgyzstan.

At the meeting, the operational model for the district service provider, the funding mechanisms and the procedure for transferring the functions of operating and maintaining water supply systems to it were presented. Ownership of the infrastructure will, however, remain with the local authorities.

Following the meeting, participants supported the establishment of the RPU. The plan is to prepare the necessary documents, submit the matter for consideration at sessions of the aiyl councils, and gradually conclude delegation agreements between the aiyl okmotu and the new municipal enterprise.

It is expected that the establishment of a district supplier will improve the quality, reliability and sustainability of drinking water supply services for residents of the Sokuluk District.