Switzerland and the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development promise Bishkek residents improvement of drinking water supply system in the nearest future, as the relevant agreement was signed between the Kyrgyz government, Swiss Confederation and EBRD.

The financial aid will be passed to the Bishkekvodokanal network, which is in great need of repair for over 30 years.

Namely the funds will be spent for replacement of most worn-out parts of the water system, installation of new water treatment facilities, pumps and meters, and purchase of transport for emergency services and technical support.

The project’s budget totals to €11,800,000, whereof Swizz government contributes €5,700,000 and €5,500,000 is a loan from EBRD for 15 years.

The Bishkek water system repair is expected to run trough 2012.

According to Hanspeter Maag, director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Bishkek the project’s mission is to provide an uninterrupted drinking water supply to all districts of the capital and expand the system to newly built districts.