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Water Supply Overhaul in Montenegro Improves Tourism, Creates New
Jobs
Montenegro is a country of exquisite natural and cultural resources. Every summer, more than 600,000 tourists flock to its shores and towns, doubling the small Republic's population and straining infrastructure. The political conflicts and economic upheaval of the 90s, as well as the influx of refugees from other regions of former Yugoslavia, have exacted a heavy toll on the country's water and wastewater systems, which have deteriorated over the years without resources for maintenance and upgrades.
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched a project to enhance water supply in three cities-the coastal communities of Budva and Kotor, as well as the inland community of Cetinje. The purpose of the project is to prevent wastewater overflows to the bathing beaches in Budva and to sensitive coastal and historically significant areas in Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The improvements are critically needed to restore the infrastructure, provide substantially more water, safeguard public health, and support the tourism industry, a critical component of Montenegro's economy.
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| View of Budva’s Old Town |
The project activities include pump stations improvements, design and installation of the new water pipelines, supply of electric generators, and upgrades of the existing systems. Another activity, located in the UNESCO-protected Kotor Bay, is the installation of the transmission system from Orahovac water source to the municipality of Kotor and its residents. It was started 20 years ago, but was never completed due to lack of funds.
"Thanks to the donations from the American people, the local water supply company is now able to secure water supply through the municipality all the way to the Old Town of Kotor, where it is most needed," says Velimir Dragic, Technical Manager, in the local water supply company.
To make sure that the local communities have an opportunity to address concerns regarding the location of new facilities, as well as the construction works, USAID's implementing partner, CDM International Services Group, works closely with citizens and political leaders to address ownership disputes and to reach agreements.
The project has built a close-knit team, involving local engineering companies, construction contractors, and equipment suppliers, and is working hand in hand with local communities, as well as local- and republic- level governments. Once the construction work is completed, the project provides training for staff in the local companies on how to maintain and operate the equipment.
Through this project, USAID is looking to strengthen the local water utilities. With the better infrastructure, the local authorities and business leaders will be able to attract lenders and investors for further economic revitalization.
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