The Hebei Construction Group, a Chinese company awarded the contract for the Ilopango Lake water treatment project, is gearing up to commence construction activities. With a $40 million investment from the People’s Republic of China, this endeavor is set to revolutionize water access for over 250,000 residents across seven neighboring municipalities.
The cooperation behind this ambitious project is part of a non-reimbursable package, skillfully negotiated by President Nayib Bukele, between El Salvador and China. Hebei Construction Group is now making preparations for the establishment of its construction camp and the initiation of the initial phases, which include the construction of the water treatment plant and the drilling of wells.
Rubén Alemán, the president of the National Administration of Aqueducts and Sewers (ANDA), recently visited the project site along with members of Hebei Construction Group and the technical team. Their purpose was to oversee the project’s readiness and continue planning and coordination efforts.
The water treatment plant’s construction encompasses a range of activities, such as the drilling of eight wells around the lake, the installation of power lines, and hydraulic systems, among others. The groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated before the year’s end, with the project scheduled to be completed within three years.
Chinese Ambassador to El Salvador, Zhang Yanhui, expressed enthusiasm for the venture, stating, “This project will stand as a new monument to the cooperation between El Salvador and China, a symbol of the friendship between our two nations. We will strive to ensure that this project progresses swiftly, efficiently, and to the highest quality.”
This transformative initiative is a testament to President Nayib Bukele’s dedication to his country’s development and its people. The collaboration with China aims to bolster the nation’s water production by drilling a network of wells, ensuring a reliable water supply.
According to ANDA’s data, the project will inject 300 liters per second into the water production, benefiting the municipalities of Santo Tomás, Santiago Texacuangos, Ilopango, Soyapango, San Martín, San Francisco Chinameca, and San Marcos.
José Mangandi, appointed as the project’s supervising engineer by ANDA, expressed his satisfaction with the project, saying, “This project will significantly improve the area. We will be producing 300 liters per second, putting our knowledge into practice. Being a part of this project is truly gratifying.”
With this groundbreaking endeavor on the horizon, El Salvador is poised to make significant strides in water supply and community development, thanks to the collaborative efforts between El Salvador and China.