The Bosnia and Herzegovina entity, Republika Srpska (RS), has repeatedly suffered serious damage caused by an inadequate flood prevention system during high water levels. The situation worsened after severe floods in 2010 and 2014.
To identify the main urgent measures for flood protection, more than 100 hotspots along the Sava River and its tributaries (Drina, Una, Ukrina, Bosna and Vrbas) were visited and assessed. These flood protection measures were prioritised, classified as emergency (immediate), short-term (urgent) and mid-term measures, and divided into two implementation phases.
Phase I covers emergency (immediate) measures, i.e. construction works for rehabilitation/reconstruction of flood protection facilities, such as riverbeds, dykes and embankments, drainage channels and pumping stations.
Phase II represents the continuation of works for rehabilitation/reconstruction of flood protection facilities (i.e. dykes, channels, riverbanks, riverbeds) identified as short-term (urgent) and mid-term measures, purchase of vehicles, machinery and equipment for maintenance of these facilities, as well as TA for supervision of work contracts.
In order to start the implementation of Phase II activities, WBIF approved a €0.75m grant to provide technical assistance both to the public utility company ‘Vode Srpske’ and PMU for the execution of activities, such as (i) checking, adjusting/revision and finalisation of the technical documentation for urgent measures for flood protection; (ii) preparation of tender documents for works, services and goods; (iii) support in the tendering process, including participation in the tender evaluation as Observer and reporting in compliance with EC and EIB procedures; and, (iv) assistance in project management (including development and implement of a capacity building programme, support the communication and visibility of the project, support in improving the emergency warning system, etc.), as deemed necessary.
This TA grant, the fourth in a row, is part of the comprehensive support provided through WBIF to facilitate flood mapping and flood risk management in Republika Srpska. The implementation of these investments will improve the performance and reliability of the flood protection system in RS, and reduce the future risk of floods and the possibility of significant material damage. Additionally, it will improve the quality of life in stakeholder municipalities (30 in total) with almost 700,000 inhabitants.
