RUSSIA, KALININGRAD WASTE WATER (FEASIBILITY)	15/08/2005
	The Pregolya estuary is one of the most polluted areas of the Baltic Sea basin, and drinking water quality in Kaliningrad City is poor. Further, large pulp and paper industries discharge pollution to the Nemunas river which discharges to the Curonian lagoon and the Baltic sea. These rivers are transboundary with the new EU accession countries of Lithuania and Poland. The majority of wastewater treatment facilities in the Kaliningrad Oblast only provide mechanical treatment. The objective of the project was to reduce pollution of drinking water sources and reduce trans-boundary pollution in the Kaliningrad Oblast by preparing priority wastewater treatment investment projects for implementation in medium sized cities. Preparation of a master plan for wastewater collection and treatment infrastructure in the Kaliningrad Oblast. Selection criteria were developed in order to prioritise the potential projects for investment into short, medium and long term financing packages. Three priority projects were selected. The master plan considered the current state of infrastructure, environment conditions, socio-economic status, and utility management. Preparation of Feasibility Studies for 3 selected priority wastewater collection and treatment projects. The feasibility studies identified the legal and administrative requirements for the investment to be implemented. Preparation of Technical Design and tender dossier for construction works and construction supervision for a priority project for wastewater collection and treatment. The designs were consistent with Russian and EU norms, and the tender dossiers were consistent with the EC’s Practical Guide on contracting (PRAG). A memorandum of understanding was negotiated and prepared between the EC and Beneficiary. Capacity building of the Beneficiary. A training needs assessment was undertaken on the Beneficiary staff and training initiatives undertaken to improve the management system.