Persistent water shortages and rationing of supply affect the service areas of almost all regional water companies (RWCs) in Kosovo* and especially those serving the needs of the population in Ferizaj, Gjilan, Kacanik, Shtime, Lipjan, Viti, Kamenice, Kllokot, and Shterpce. The situation has worsened due to the rapid growth of urban areas, RWCs’ limited capacity to serve these recent developments, and extremely dry periods and poor rainfall, which have led to further water shortages and restrictions in supply.
For this reason, in 2014, WBIF approved a technical assistance grant to finance the preparation of the Feasibility study for the construction of the Lepenc Canal and Firaja and Shtime dams.
The study considered several alternative development options and recommended a two-phased approach for the implementation of the preferred development option. Phase 1 will be focused on meeting the water supply requirements of the region while Phase 2 will address the longer-term needs and in particular irrigation requirements.
* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence
