The rehabilitation of the water supply system in Shkodra is delivering visible and measurable improvements on the ground, as the project advances steadily towards completion.
Implemented under the Municipal Infrastructure Programme V (MIP V), the project is transforming the city’s water infrastructure through large-scale investments in new pipelines, upgraded connections, and modern metering systems.
To date, significant physical progress has been achieved across multiple components of the network.
Main transmission lines
A key backbone of the system, the main transmission line from the Dobraç pumping station to the Rus roundabout, is nearly complete, with more than 3,000 metres of pipeline with 600 mm diameter (DCI DN 600 ) installed. The new distribution main from the Rus area to the Hospital roundabout has also progressed significantly, reaching over 1,000 metres of 400 mm diameter pipeline (HDPE DN 400).
Distribution lines covering the areas
About 50,000 meters of new pipelines have been installed, with diametres from 160 mm, 110 mm for main distribution lines of the network and 90 mm and 63 mm for the branches leading the water to the different areas from where the individual households are connected.
Household connections
The project has also made substantial progress in expanding household connections. About 14,000 metres of service connections from the network to the individual households have been completed, providing direct access to reliable water supply for households and businesses.
In parallel, the installation of water meter boxes continues to advance, with 1,953 units already in place, representing over 93% of the planned total. These installations are essential for accurate consumption monitoring, improved billing, and reduction of water losses.
Micro tunneling – innvovative techniques minimising impact of construction
An important technical component of the works is the use of micro-tunnelling techniques to install pipelines in challenging areas without disrupting surface infrastructure. So far, nearly 1,000 metres of pipelines have been installed using this method. This approach minimises impact on traffic and urban life, while ensuring efficient and precise installation.
Final phase
Together, these interventions are building a more efficient and reliable water supply system for Shkodra, reducing technical losses, stabilising water pressure, and enhancing overall service delivery
As the project moves into its final phase, remaining works are focused on completing connections and finalising system integration. Once completed, the investment will provide Shkodra with a modern, resilient, and sustainable water supply system aligned with European standards.
This project not only improves everyday life for residents but also strengthens the long-term operational and financial sustainability of the local water utility, contributing to the broader modernisation of Albania’s water sector.
