Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a US$125 million loan to Uzbekistan to support reforms in water resource management.
The funds will be directed towards enhancing water security, modernizing water supply systems, and improving sector resilience in response to climate change.
The project focuses on implementing smart water management systems, which will improve infrastructure efficiency, optimize water and energy use, and strengthen the human resource capacity of the national water supply company. These measures are expected not only to ensure more reliable water supply but also to mitigate the effects of climate change.
“Uzbekistan’s water resources face serious threats due to climate change and inefficient use,” stated Kanokpan Lao-Araya, ADB’s Country Director for Uzbekistan. She noted that the project aims to introduce digital technologies in water resource management, which will lead to reduced energy consumption, improved operational efficiency, and a lower carbon footprint for the country.
ADB funding will enable Uzsuvtaminot and its regional branches to complete the nationwide installation of water metering and telemetry systems. Additionally, the project includes a comprehensive inventory of existing water supply and wastewater facilities, covering approximately four million customer connections.
The initiative also involves the launch of an integrated digital platform for utility management, improving accounting, monitoring, and customer service operations. The adoption of new technologies will enhance financial transparency and ensure compliance with international standards.
The project is designed to reduce operating costs, improve workforce efficiency, and enhance service quality.
This year marks 30 years of partnership between Uzbekistan and ADB. Since Uzbekistan’s accession to ADB in 1995, the bank has provided the country with US$14.3 billion in funding, including loans, grants, and technical assistance.
Founded in 1966, the Asian Development Bank comprises 69 member countries, 49 of which are in the Asia-Pacific region. The bank remains committed to fostering a prosperous, stable, and sustainable economy, continuing its anti-poverty programs.
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