site.btaDeputy Prime Minister Says Only 25% of Municipal Projects Submitted for State Funding Are for Water Supply Infrastructure

As few as 25% of municipal projects submitted for state funding are for water and sewerage infrastructure, Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov, who chairs the National Water Board, told a news briefing at the Council of Ministers. Earlier on Wednesday, a meeting of the Board was held, attended by Members of Parliament as well.

"My overall impression from the meeting is that in terms of actions we are on the right track, but unfortunately, the pace is not satisfactory. Based on the reports received, it is evident that the rate of wear of the water supply network in recent years far exceeds the rate at which it is being replaced, a clear imbalance that must be addressed," Zafirov said.

He also noted that there are entire regions deprived of European funding because the local water companies are too small to be eligible.

The Deputy Prime Minister added that he will propose that next year's state budget explicitly include priority funding for projects related to water supply infrastructure. According to him, a report from the Regional Development Minister revealed that resolving the issue of the aging water network, even just the most urgent needs, would require BGN 3.7 billion.

During the meeting, funding from the Bulgarian Development Bank for  such projects was also discussed, Zafirov added, reminding that the bank is part of the board's leadership.

Quoting data from the Finance Ministry, in 2025 the state budget will fund 579 municipal projects with a total value of BGN 775.4 million, Zafirov also said. He noted that by the end of 2027, BGN 1.1 billion in funding is planned for the water sector.

"We are fully aware of the responsibilities and the difficulties we are facing, and we are ready to give all our strength and energy to tackle this major issue," Zafirov added.

The National Water Board will meet twice a month, and once a month it will report on its accomplishments to the National Assembly.

The Council of Ministers established the National Water Board following a decision by the National Assembly regarding the implementation of urgent measures to address the water crisis in the country. The goal is to coordinate actions to overcome the water crisis during this year, as well as to unite the efforts of all relevant institutions in preventing potential future crises.