BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 29.
Kazakhstan's Atyrau Region Governor Bolat Akchulakov and
representatives of Spain-based water management company Aqualia
have discussed potential cooperation on modernizing the region's
water supply and wastewater systems, according to the region's
press service.


At the meeting, Akchulakov presented a preliminary
concept for developing Atyrau's wastewater system, which envisages
the phased expansion of sewerage infrastructure, taking into
account the city's terrain and high groundwater levels.


The sides also discussed the technical condition of
existing wastewater treatment facilities and the possibility of
conducting a technical audit with the involvement of Aqualia
experts.


The discussions covered an integrated approach to
water resource management, including drinking water quality,
wastewater treatment, reducing water losses and reusing treated
wastewater for technical purposes. These issues are particularly
relevant for Atyrau, an industrial region with high demand for
industrial water.


Aqualia representatives outlined the company's
operations in 19 countries, where it serves nearly 45 million
people, as well as its experience managing water services in
Tbilisi and Rustavi. According to the company, during its four
years of operation in Georgia, energy consumption was reduced by
30% and water losses were cut.







The sides considered possible forms of cooperation,
including technical assistance, audits and different models for
implementing infrastructure projects.


"Water supply and wastewater management are parts of
a single cycle and must be approached systematically. When
implementing projects, it is important not only to address current
needs but also to ensure quality and reliability in the long term,"
Akchulakov said.


Aqualia plans to send a team of experts to Atyrau in
November to inspect facilities and study the operation of the local
water utility. The specialists intend to assess the technical,
commercial and financial aspects of the water supply and wastewater
systems. Based on the findings, the company expects to prepare
specific proposals for further cooperation by the end of the
year.