Public health security and access to vital resources in central Republic of Moldova are set to improve significantly with the launch of the Open Urban Development Program. Through a joint investment of EUR 24 million, authorities will fully modernize the water intake station on the Dniester River, turning it into the core of a regional system that will supply more than 800,000 residents in Chisinau and the districts of Straseni and Calarasi.
The project, officially launched today, reflects strong international cooperation. The Government of Germany is providing a EUR 14 million grant through KfW. The Government of Moldova is contributing EUR 7.6 million, while Chisinau City Hall is adding EUR 2 million. The Central Regional Development Agency is coordinating the initiative. A key component involves building a modern water intake station that will feed a 52-kilometer pipeline connecting the capital with nearby towns and villages by the end of 2026.
Vladimir Bolea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development, emphasized that the project addresses a fundamental need by improving how the state manages surface water resources.
“One of the essential problems our residents face is the quality of drinking water. For this reason, we are focusing on development based on surface waters, including intake stations and main pipelines that interconnect cities and, later, villages. This is probably the most important project we can implement together, because water is a key element for the health and safety of every resident,” Bolea said.
The new infrastructure will not only expand supply but also ensure resilience under extreme weather conditions. Hubert Knirsch, Ambassador of Germany to Chisinau, highlighted the advanced technical features of the station, noting that engineers designed it to withstand floods and prevent accidental pollution.
“I am proud that Germany can contribute directly to raising Moldova’s water supply system to a high European standard. The new station will include dual intake channels, resist floods and climate change, and prevent sediments and pollution from entering the system,” he said.
Vera Vitkin, representing KfW, stressed that long-term success will depend on efficient management and financial sustainability.
“Infrastructure must be supported by quality services, and water operations must rely on tariffs that cover costs while remaining affordable. Otherwise, the infrastructure will not remain sustainable in the long run,” she explained.
Authorities signed five financing agreements on Thursday, enabling construction works that will impact nearly one million people. In addition to engineering works, the project allocates EUR 1 million for the institutional modernization of Apa-Canal Chisinau, ensuring that new infrastructure is matched by water management aligned with European standards.