YEREVAN, MARCH 12, NOYAN TAPAN. The programs on improvement of the water supply and sewerage systems in Armavir, Lori and Shirak marzes were discussed at the March 12 consultation conducted by the RA deputy prime minister, territorial governance minister Hovik Abrahamian. The indicated programs are being implemented by Nor Akunk, Lori Water-Canal and Shirak Water-Canal CJSCs with the financing of KfW bank within the framework of Armenian-German financial cooperation. The direct participation of communities in the management of the indicated companies was ensured in the areas serviced by these water-supply companies in order to raise the quality of municipal services. It was mentioned that the above mentioned programs will solve the water-supply problems in Armavir marz (cities of Armavir and Metsamor and 10 adjacent settlements), Lori marz (city of Vanadzor, 16 adjacent settlements) and Shirak marz (cities of Gyumri and Maralik and 35 adjacent settlements). NT was informed by the PR department of the RA ministry of territorial governance that the program-envisaged work is approaching completion in Armavir marz, as a result of which 18-hour water supply was achieved in the marz in 2007. At the initial stage of the program in Vanadzor and Gyumri, work was carried out on registration and installation of users' water meters, as well as a number of structural reforms of the companies were implemented. It is planned to finish the program in Lori and Shirak marzes in 2009.

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