The European Commission said on Monday in a press release that it has approved the allocation of €357 million from the Cohesion Fund to expand and modernize the water and wastewater systems in the two Romanian counties Satu Mare and Braila.
The project aims to supply good-quality drinking water, reduce sewage leaks and improve wastewater services, ensuring compliance with EU directives for drinking water and wastewater treatment.
„An expanded and modernised water and wastewater infrastructure will improve access to water, reduce soil and water pollution and help protect biodiversity. By improving the security of water and contributing to a healthier population and environment, these projects will improve the local population’s living conditions,” said Elisa Ferreira, Commissioner for Cohesion and reforms.
The water distribution network in Satu Mare county, in north-western Romania, will be extended by 260 km and the wastewater network by 450 km.
Old pipes will be replaced, and new wells, treatment plants, pumping stations and storage tanks will be built.
The investment in Braila county, in south-eastern Romania, follows on three previous projects to improve the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater systems in the county’s four water-supply systems and 14 agglomerations.
A supervisory and control system will increase the quality of service to consumers and reduce costs for the beneficiary.