The difference clean, reliable water makes

Surrounded by mountains and close to the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, Karakol in the Kyrgyz Republic is known for its natural beauty, relaxed pace of life and growing tourism sector. But behind the city's picturesque setting, access to reliable drinking water has long been a challenge.

For some residents, water shortages were simply part of everyday life. "Sometimes we had to wake up at four in the morning just to fill containers," recalls Valentina, a Karakol resident. "There was no running water inside the house."

Much of the city's water infrastructure was built decades ago. Ageing pipelines and interruptions in supply made even simple daily activities, from cooking and cleaning to running a small business, more difficult.

Today, that is changing.

With financing from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and grant support from Switzerland, through the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), Karakol is modernising its water supply system.

The investment is helping the municipal water utility, Karakol Vodokanal, replace ageing pipelines, upgrade water facilities and introduce water meters to improve efficiency and encourage more responsible consumption.

For residents in neighbourhoods where the networks have already been upgraded, the difference is tangible. "Now there's no need to store water in containers," says Valentina. "You simply turn on the tap and the water is there."

Reliable water also matters for Karakol's local economy. Guesthouses, hotels and other small businesses depend on clean water to welcome visitors and provide quality services. For Nao, who runs a guesthouse in the city, improvements in water supply have made it easier to look after her guests.

The project is not only about bringing water into homes and businesses. It is also about making better use of a precious natural resource. "Water is not endless," explains Olga, who works on the project at Karakol Vodokanal. "We want even children to understand the importance of turning off the tap." 

As Karakol continues to develop, modern and efficient water infrastructure will be essential to supporting its residents, local businesses and more sustainable use of resources.