The client aims to increase the number of daily water supply hours from an average of 10 to 16 hours, with 90 % coverage whilst improving sanitation services to 67 % coverage (by population).

The project includes the rehabilitation of three water treatment plants and upgrades to three sewerage plants, as well as new transmission mains, storage tanks and SCADA systems.

SMEC has been appointed to deliver Engineering Consultancy for the rehabilitation and extension of water supply and sewerage infrastructure, as well as non-revenue water reduction infrastructure. The project is being built by China Henan International Cooperation Group (CHICO). As part of the scope SMEC will oversee cost control, QA, safety and environmental management for up to 400 construction workers dispersed across the site.

One of the biggest challenges facing the project is how to replace the water pipes without disrupting the existing water supply. This is especially challenging in densely populated areas. The solution is to replace the pipes in sections, using careful planning and scheduling. On average, 50 meters of pipe will be replaced at a time, to minimize disruption to communities.

The project is expected to be completed in May 2026.