Southern Region Water Board (SRWB) has officially presented the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report for the Liwonde–Balaka Water Supply Upgrade Project. The disclosure was made during a stakeholder meeting involving members of the District Executive Committee (DEC), District Environmental Subcommittee (DESK), and Area Development Committees (ADC) from both Balaka and Liwonde District Councils.

The ESIA report highlights key environmental and social considerations of the project. It outlines potential environmental impacts, such as the cutting down of trees, as well as social impacts including employment opportunities and public health concerns. For each issue identified, the report proposes appropriate mitigation measures to reduce negative impacts and enhance benefits.

Additionally, the report defines the roles and responsibilities of district leadership in monitoring the project, ensuring that local governance structures are actively involved throughout the implementation process.

The report was well received by participants, who welcomed it on behalf of their respective communities. During the presentation, Project Implementation Manager, Engineer Maxin Saulosi, emphasized the establishment of a Complaint Redress Committee. This committee will serve as a platform for addressing any questions or grievances that may arise during the course of the project.

Designed to serve the growing population up to the year 2050, the Liwonde–Balaka Project is expected to significantly improve both the quality and quantity of water supply in the two districts.

DOWNLOAD ESIA DOCUMENT HERE

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