Jems
The implementation of the EU-funded “Waterlink” project is progressing rapidly. A GIS database of the water supply system in the target area has already been established. In its current phase, the GIS database includes input data on pipelines categorized by material and diameter, as well as water infrastructure components such as reservoirs, valve and meter chambers, service connections, pressure regulators, and pump stations. Temporary DMA zones have been defined, along with user addresses and both existing and newly established monitoring points identified during field inspections.
This system is designed to enhance loss control and ensure highly efficient management of the water supply network. Specifically, it enables the quantification of losses within each measurement zone, calibration of current system models based on collected data, and the creation of water balances for both monitored and planned consumption zones.
A detailed plan for monitoring locations and related activities has also been developed, with a focus on improving centralized control system management and introducing additional supervisory and control points. As part of this effort, new equipment for measuring flow and pressure has been installed in several locations: a water reservoir level sensor and a turbidity meter in the area of Plat, and flow meters in Močići, Čilipi, Cavtat and Dunave.
At this stage of the project, public procurement procedures have already been completed for laboratory equipment and for a field vehicle to support the monitoring of the water supply system. Notably, the project provides funding for a rare and advanced laboratory essential for water quality monitoring for the needs of the Municipality of Konavle and its utility company, Konavosko komunalno društvo d.o.o., with an estimated value of EUR 160,000. Preparations are underway for the installation of the laboratory in a designated space within the Molunat water treatment facility.
Furthermore, a public procurement procedure has been conducted and a contract signed for the development of project and technical documentation aimed at interconnecting the eastern and western water supply systems in Konavle. This represents a key step in ensuring the security of the water supply, as it will allow the entire Konavle area to be supplied with water from either the Duboka Ljuta or Ljuta spring as alternative sources.
The “Waterlink” project — full title: “Smart and Innovative Management Practices for Preservation of Regional Water Quality and Supply” — is funded through the Interreg VI-A IPA Cross-border Cooperation Programme Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro 2021–2027.
The project is implemented in partnership with the City of Trebinje and the public utility company Vodovod i kanalizacija Herceg Novi. Its main objective is to establish water quality monitoring and further reduce technical water losses throughout the integrated cross-border water supply system.
The total project value is EUR 1,639,945.20, of which 85% is financed through EU grants. The budget allocated to the Municipality of Konavle amounts to EUR 535,752.00, and the project is scheduled to last for 24 months.