The Peruvian Government on Friday presented the feasibility statement of the "Lake Titicaca Basin Wastewater Treatment System" project at a ceremony presided over by President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski.
The venture involves the construction of 10 wastewater treatment plants to clean up the world's highest lake, thus benefiting over 1 million people in South-Andean Puno region.
"We will execute this lake cleanup project, installing 10 treatment plants at the intakes of all the rivers that flow into the Titicaca and sewers. That way, the most beautiful lake in the world will also be the cleanest," he said.
Prior to the announcement, the Head of State took a tour around the lake and confirmed its polluted state, which is further aggravated by household drains of surrounding localities.
In response to this situation, the project is meant to provide a comprehensive solution to treat and clean Lake Titicaca's waters. Resulting benefits will contribute to the region's public health, well-being, economic development and environmental conservation.
The US$437-million project will be executed through the Public-Private Partnership scheme. The concession term will be 30 years.
Likewise, the statesman ratified his commitment to articulate efforts with local and regional authorities in order to address their issues and improve populations' life quality.
The venture covers the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants, collectors and final disposal in Puno localities San Roman, Lampa, Melgar, Moho, Collao, Yunguyo, Huancane, Azangaro and Chucuito.
The ceremony saw the presence of Housing, Construction and Sanitation Minister Edmer Trujillo, Puno's Regional Governor Juan Luque, as well as province mayors and Congress legislators.
Water for Desaguadero
Earlier today, Minister Trujillo joined President Kuczynski for a visit to oversee the expansion and upgrading of water and sewerage works in Desaguadero district.
The project involves the installation of more than 3,000 water and sewerage connections, and is expected to benefit over 20,000 locals.
Works entailed an investment of over S/52.6 million (about US$15.66 million). Completion is scheduled for March.
(END) NDP/MAO/DHT/MVB