World Bank provides loan for Armenian irrigation rehabilitation project

The World Bank has approved a loan of $18m for a irrigation rehabilitation emergency project in Armenia.

The scope of work involves the rehabilitation of 50km of main and secondary canals, which serve a 520km² area in the regions of Aragastotn, Kotayk, Shirak, Lori, Ararat and Armavir.

This will reduce water losses by an estimated 34.4 million cubic metres and will restore irrigation to a 47km² area.

Approximately 63km of tertiary networks will be rehabilitated in 19 communities within the regions of Lori, Shirak, Gegharkunik and Armavir, and will reduce water losses by 9.9 million cubic metres.

The total cost of the project is $21.6m, of which the Armenian Government will provide $3.4m and $200,000 will come from other beneficiaries.