DUSHANBE, July 27, 2012, Asia-Plus -- After 2 years of TajWSS intensive work at the national and local levels has resulted in the launch of the drinking water supply system construction works in Rohati jamoat in Roudaki district.

Tajikistan Water Supply and Sanitation (TajWSS) project has started the construction of a water supply system which will provide potable water to the five villages of Navobod, Dovai Bolo, Mehtari, Nilkon and Dovai Rohati, in Rohati jamoat of Roudaki district, with combined total population of 7847 people, press release issued by TajWSS Project said.

Currently, nearly 70% of the population of these villages gets their drinking water from irrigation ditches and canals. These sources do not meet basic sanitary requirements and lead to an increase in water borne diseases.

The design and tender process of the new water supply system was successfully completed in July, and the construction activities are being undertaken alongside trainings for the Water User Association “Behdosht va Salomati” who will monitor the construction activities and on hand over will be the operator of the system. According to the decree of the Ministry of Finance of Tajikistan, the construction of the system is financed by Water Users Association “Behdosht va Salomati” - 5%; Roudaki district administration - 10%, Government of Tajikistan - 15% and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) - 70% of the total project cost.

In the course of construction it is planned to continue trainings for the Water User Association in the effective and sustainable exploitation and maintenance of water supply system, including legal, administrative and financial management, control of water quality and sanitation.

A Public Awareness Campaign is planned to be held for the population of the villages in order to increase their awareness on the rational use of water, issues of personal hygiene and sanitation, as well as the need and importance for timely payment of water services.

In August, 2012 the construction of the next water supply system will start in Dehlolo 2 village of Kulchashma jamoat in Muminobod district.