On this occasion, the exhibition “The Importance of Preserving Water Resources for the Future” was set up on the panels on Korzo (main street), which follows and informs citizens about the development of the project “Improvement of water and utility infrastructure in the territory of the Rijeka Agglomeration” worth HRK 1.76 billion.

The project includes the construction and reconstruction of about 217 kilometres of the existing sewerage system and 125 pumping stations, with simultaneous execution of works on approximately 100 kilometres of public water supply in five local self-government units (Rijeka, Kastav, Viškovo, Čavle, Jelenje) that form the territory of the Rijeka Agglomeration.

In addition to reducing pollution of the sea and related ecosystems, and maintaining water quality, the project also envisages a rise in connections onto the public wastewater drainage system, optimised and improved functioning of the existing public sewerage system, as well as an increase in the quality of water supply, whereby the current connection of the population of the Rijeka Agglomeration onto the public sewerage system will increase from 68% to about 92% by the end of the project.

The exhibition remains open until 28 March

“Large investments in the construction of water and utility infrastructure will enable us to further have clean and drinking water and preserve its quality,” said Rijeka mayor Marko Filipovic, adding that we inherit drinking water sources almost in the city centre. “Water is inseparable from Rijeka, which is visible in its name as well as the historical coat of arms of Rijeka. In recent years, we have reconstructed historical water reservoirs, and taps have been installed in several locations in the city that allow Rijeka citizens and its visitors to pour a glass of our excellent Rijeka water. “Available clean and drinking tap water is a privilege that we have, and many, unfortunately, do not have it, and therefore we must protect and value it,” concluded Filipović.

“Economic growth, population growth and large urbanisation are potential dangers to groundwater. It is impossible to increase water resources and we must protect what we have for the future. The project Improving the water and utility infrastructure in the territory of the Rijeka Agglomeration is a significant step forward”, said the director of utility company Vodovod i kanalizacija Andrej Marochini during the inauguration of the exhibition.

By scanning the QR code on the first panel of the exhibition, citizens can hear the audio-visual record “Rijeka Water Symphony” by artist Ivo Vičić, which offers the sounds of Rijeka water.

During the opening of the exhibition, ViK’s mascots, drops of Rijeka water, distributed promotional materials to citizens.

The exhibition set up on the panels on Korzo remains open until 28 March.