PHOTO // Cooperation for Life: Germany, Moldova build infrastructure to provide safe water to central region

German Ambassador to Moldova Hubert Knirsch today made a working visit to the central region of the country, where he inspected more sites of the nationally important project, Improvement of Water Infrastructure in Central Moldova. The project is implemented by the government of Moldova through the Central Regional Development Agency (ADR), with financial support from the German Development Bank KfW, and will provide safe drinking water for tens of thousands of residents in the Straseni and Calarasi districts.

The German official's visit started at the depot in the Straseni municipality, where materials and pipes waiting to be installed at active construction sites are stored. Subsequently, the delegation inspected the Straseni construction site, where work on the main ductile iron pipeline is in full swing. Presently, teams are working simultaneously on ten construction sites distributed across the project's three sectors – Chișinău, Straseni and Calarasi.

So far, over nine kilometers of pipeline have been installed, work has begun on three pumping stations and essential ancillary work for water infrastructure has been completed.

"The access to safe drinking water is a fundamental right of each human being. Through this project, Germany contributes to improving the quality of life for thousands of residents in the Central Region. This an example of effective cooperation and European solidarity," said Ambassador Hubert Knirsch.

For his part, Ion Panzari, director of ADR Centru, emphasized that "the project is a clear example of how international cooperation brings visible and beneficial changes for communities. Germany is not just a financial partner, but a trusted partner that supports us in building sustainable and environmentally friendly infrastructure."

The Chisinau-Straseni-Calarasi project, one of the largest of its kind in Moldova, involves the construction of a main pipeline over 50 km long, which will transport surface water from the Dniester River, reducing pressure on underground sources and ensuring sustainable supply to residents.

In the long term, the project's benefits include reducing the risk of illness caused by unsafe water, increasing supply security during drought periods, protecting natural resources and improving the comfort and quality of life of communities in the region. The project also aims to build the capacity of local water operators for efficient and sustainable management of the infrastructure.

The implementation of Improvement of Water Infrastructure in Central Moldova project marks an important step in modernizing the country's water services and highlights the positive impact of Moldovan-German cooperation in critical infrastructure.