EU aid to replace water pipes for Turkish Cypriots

The European Commission is re-launching the works tender for the replacement of 83 kms water pipes and 3800 domestic water meters in the northern part of Nicosia. 

This is the first work project to be financed from the EU aid programme for the Turkish Cypriot community. The procurement notice for this tender has been published in the local press. Instructions for tenderers and tender dossier are available on the EuropeAid website (http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/cgi/frame12.pl). EU companies as well as those from candidate countries may bid. The deadline for bids is 1 December 2008.

The water pipes to be replaced are mainly made from asbestos cement and are in poor condition leading to possible health hazards as well as up to 60% losses through leaks. The project foresees replacement of the main pipes over a length of 83 km as well as the replacement of house connections and 3800 domestic water meters. The new installations will meet EU standards. 

The EUR259 mln EU aid programme for the Turkish Cypriot community is managed by the European Commission. Upgrading of infrastructure to EU standards is a major component of the programme, particularly in the area of water distribution and waste water collection and treatment.