EBRD to support infrastructure upgrades for wastewater system in Kobuleti, Georgia

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has agreed to finance wastewater system upgrades in the town of Kobuleti in Georgia.

The bank will be offering a loan of €2.2m to local water supply and wastewater utility Kobuleti Water Company in order to construct a wastewater treatment plant in the town.

EBRD will be offering support for the project management and its implementation, which will be carried out by Municipal Development Fund (MDF) under the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure of Georgia.

Additionally, technical cooperation grants have also been allocated for the project from the EBRD Water Fund. The grant amount will be used for implementation of a feasibility analysis for the project and for its environmental and social assessment.

MDF has secured further funding from Czech Republic for project management and implementation.

EBRD director for the Caucasus, Moldova and Belarus region Bruno Balvanera said: "The project is another demonstration of the EBRD’s commitment to Georgia’s regional and local development.

"Improving sanitation in the water system is an important part of the Bank’s strategy in Georgia, where the aim is to further develop municipal infrastructure to improve quality of life and unlock economic growth in the country."

The Georgian town has turned into a major tourist destination, which necessitates sustainable growth and infrastructure set ups to meet the requirements of local residents and visitors.

Wastewater infrastructure upgrades in the town are also aimed at reducing sea water pollution and cause positive health impact on public.

The new set up will enable controlled discharge of treated wastewater, which is expected to be in compliance with the environmental standards on the Black Sea coast.

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Image: Upgrades to the wastewater infrastructure is also likely to reduce pollution in sea water. Photo: courtesy of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.