Water and other urban infrastructure and services / Urban flood protection - Urban policy, institutional and capacity development - Urban sanitation

(The proposed Project will establish an integrated first-stage sewerage, drainage, and sewage treatment system for central Apia. The Project will initiate a rational system of urban land use planning. Urban management capacity will be improved.)

The overall objective of the Project is to improve the environment and public health of Apia through assistance in improving urban infrastructure for drainage and sanitation as well as improving urban management capacity. The Project objectives include improved public health, environmental quality, and surface and groundwater quality; and reduced frequency of flooding in specific low-lying areas of Apia. The Project also promotes private sector participation in provision of urban services by outsourcing a number of utility services to the private sector, and advances private sector development by providing improved infrastructure and business environment.

The Project will strengthen public sector policy reforms, develop social infrastructure, and enhance the urban environment.

The Project supports ADB's strategy for Samoa (ADB.2002. Country Strategy and Program Update 2003-2005. Samoa) and Water Policy by (i) fostering good water and environment governance, (ii) improving living conditions, and (iii) promoting private sector growth and creating jobs through private sector participation in providing wastewater services and improving environmental infrastructure. The emphasis on integrated water resource management, which is promoted through capacity building, support for PUMA, and promotion of regional cooperation by establishing a utility twinning arrangement, supports ADB's Water Policy.

Improved drainage and delivery of wastewater management and sanitation services in Apia with involvement of the private sector.

Improved environmental/water quality and public health

1. Improved drainage infrastructure in the Gasegase /Asaga catchment.

- Rehabilitaiton of floodway and storm drains

- Supporting facility for drainage works

- Supporting equipment for drainage system improvements

- Supplementary assistance to the drainage work management

- Drainage work improvements

2. Wastewater management and sanitation system

- Reticulated CBA scheme/wastewater management/ Special Needs Areas

- Septage collection system for Greater Apia

- Septage treatment system

- Individual sanitation system improvements

3. Staff of SWA, MWTI, and PUMA trained in drainage and wastewater management and retain strong capabilities in assigned field.

4. Community awareness and support of improved drainage, sanitation, and wastewater services and their delivery systems as well as improved individual practices in these areas.

Consulting services will be required to assist in (i) Project management;

(ii) preparation of detailed designs, procurement, and construction supervision; and

(iii) capacity building in urban planning and management. The number of person-months is still to be determined.