EU-funded works commence to replace old asbestos pipes in critical Nicosia Sewer

Funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), works are set to commence to replace three sections of the critical Nicosia sewer network known as ‘’Trunk E’’. This significant project marks a vital step towards ensuring the health and safety of all Nicosians.

The replacement works will take place in three sections: The town, the UN Buffer Zone, and the eastern section extending to the Nicosia Wastewater Treatment Plant. The works will start in the town section where “Trunk E” is 846 meters long. This is the area comprising of the part of Mehmet Akif Avenue (Dereboyu) from the beginning of Kumsal Park to the end of the shopping mall (the turn to Gültekin Şengör Street). The contract for the town section amounts to approximately EUR 1 million. These works are scheduled to take place between 15 June and 15 September 2024. This phase is critical to mitigating immediate risks and ensuring the uninterrupted operation of Nicosia's wastewater management system.

Ms Judit Rozsa, Acting Director-General for Structural Reform Support at the European Commission stated that “these works are critical to safely bring wastewater generated by all the people of Nicosia to the bicommunal Nicosia Wastewater Treatment Plant, where it can be properly treated. Both the sewerage network and the Wastewater Treatment Plant are evidence of a good partnership between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots for almost 40 years. The European Commission is pleased to support this joint effort, which facilitates the reunification of Cyprus”.

"The replacement of the Nicosia Trunk E sewer network is a crucial infrastructure project for the whole of Nicosia benefiting both communities", said Jakhongir Khaydarov, Head of UNDP Cyprus. “It demonstrates our commitment to improving the well-being of the people of Nicosia and supports Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, aligning with the UN Charter”.

Originally constructed in 1986 as a bicommunal initiative, the Nicosia Trunk E sewer was built with asbestos pipes. In 2000, a 2 km section of the sewer was replaced due to pipe deterioration. Now, after over 30 years of service, the remaining original asbestos sections are in a critical condition, with portions of the network collapsing. While some emergency repairs have been undertaken, 4,200 meters of pipes need replacement to prevent potential hazards.

The collaborative effort between the European Union and UNDP underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and the protection of public health. This project will not only replace deteriorating pipes, but will also enhance the resilience and reliability of Nicosia's sewer network for future generations.

European Union 

The Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, based on Council Regulation 389/2006, aims at facilitating the reunification of Cyprus by encouraging the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community, with particular emphasis on the economic integration of the island, on improving contacts between the two communities and with the EU, and on preparation for the EU body of laws (also referred to as acquis communautaire).

For more information please visit: 

Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community (europa.eu)

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United Nations Development Programme

UNDP aims to contribute and support the peace-building process in Cyprus and to enhance cooperation between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriot by implementing a range of confidence building measures.

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More resources: https://www.undp.org/cyprus