Revitalizing water services in Sarajevo for a healthier future
This case study focuses on the Sarajevo Water Project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a critical initiative aimed at enhancing water supply, wastewater, and stormwater management across 15 small municipalities. Supported by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and co-funded by the EU, this project underscores the essential role of safe water access, sanitation, and hygiene in promoting public health and well-being. By addressing the needs of 147,000 people through the rehabilitation of water supply networks and extending essential services to thousands more, this project is a cornerstone of sustainable development in the region.
About
Challenges:
Problems the Project Aims to Address:
• Inadequate access to safe drinking water and sanitation services in small municipalities, leading to public health risks.
• Deteriorated water supply networks resulting in inefficiencies, water losses, and contamination risks.
• Lack of proper stormwater management systems, increasing the risk of flooding and water pollution.
• Environmental degradation, particularly affecting surface and groundwater quality, due to insufficient wastewater treatment.
Solutions
Technical Solutions Applied by the Project:
• Rehabilitation and modernization of water supply networks, reducing water losses and ensuring reliable access to safe drinking water for 147,000 people.
• Expansion of drinking water access to an additional 34,150 residents through the construction of new pipelines and water treatment facilities.
• Connection of 4,000 people to improved sanitation services, including the installation of modern wastewater treatment systems.
• Enhancement of stormwater management infrastructure to prevent flooding and protect water quality in surface and groundwater sources.
Rehabilitation and modernization of water supply networks, reducing water losses and ensuring reliable access to safe drinking water for 147,000 people.
Expansion of drinking water access to an additional 34,150 residents through the construction of new pipelines and water treatment facilities.
Connection of 4,000 people to improved sanitation services, including the installation of modern wastewater treatment systems.
Impacts
The Sarajevo Water Project is set to be a transformative force in Bosnia and Herzegovina, elevating the standard of living for thousands of people while safeguarding the environment and laying the groundwork for long-term sustainable development.
- Significant improvement in public health and quality of life for residents through reliable access to safe water and sanitation services.
- Reduction in water-related diseases and environmental hazards, contributing to overall community well-being.
- Increased socio-economic benefits for municipalities, including better resilience against climate-related impacts like flooding.
- Protection of the environment, with particular emphasis on preserving the quality of surface and groundwater, ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations.