Safe drinking water, modern wastewater systems and climate-resilient infrastructure are essential for healthy, sustainable and competitive cities. As urban populations grow and climate change places increasing pressure on public services, investing in modern water infrastructure has become a priority for municipalities across Europe.
Vilnius is responding to these challenges through an ambitious programme to modernise its drinking water and wastewater network. Supported by a €50 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB), the project combines major infrastructure upgrades with digital innovation to improve service reliability, protect the environment and ensure the Lithuanian capital is prepared for future growth.
In this interview, Valdas Benkunskas, Mayor of Vilnius and member of the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions, explains how the project came about, the challenges it addresses, and the benefits it is already delivering for residents. He also reflects on the crucial role of local and regional authorities in turning European investment into tangible results on the ground, demonstrating how cooperation between cities and European institutions can improve people's everyday lives.
Read the full interview below.
Vilnius has recently embarked on an ambitious project of modernising the city's drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. How did this project come about? What were the difficulties the city of Vilnius was experiencing that needed to be addressed?
Over the past few years, we have modernized our infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing Vilnius. A major milestone was the reconstruction of the Vilnius wastewater treatment plant, now the most modern in the Baltic States and an important contributor to protecting the Neris River. At the same time, we have continued developing our smart water network, improving service reliability and increasing customer satisfaction.
As the city expands, growing demand places increasing pressure on ageing water infrastructure. At the same time, climate change highlights the need for more resilient wastewater and stormwater systems. To address these challenges, we are investing in modern, digital solutions that enable more efficient infrastructure management, ensure reliable services for residents, and support the sustainable growth of both the capital and the surrounding regions.
Can you briefly describe the project? What are its main aspects? What are the goals of the project? When did this project start and how did it develop until today? What are the results already achieved? What are some of the innovative solutions that are being put in place?
Backed by a €50 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB), this project is strengthening and modernising water and wastewater infrastructure across the Vilnius region through 2028. Key investments include the modernization of the Viršuliškės and Šalčininkai water stations, network expansion in the Gulbinai area, and the construction of new pressure pipelines.
At the same time, we are accelerating the digital transformation of the network by introducing smart monitoring and automated systems to improve efficiency, optimize water flow, and reduce water loss. Although the project will be completed in 2028, the ongoing works are already delivering a more reliable, resilient, and future-ready water network.
How does this project help improve public health? How does it support environmental protection and climate resilience?
The project delivers clear environmental and social benefits. Modernized water treatment systems and upgraded infrastructure ensure a safe and reliable supply of high-quality drinking water. Improved wastewater networks help protect rivers and local ecosystems by reducing the risk of untreated discharges.
At the same time, smart digital solutions reduce water losses, improve energy efficiency, and lower the environmental footprint of operations. The upgraded infrastructure is also designed to withstand the impacts of climate change, ensuring reliable water services even during extreme weather events.
How important is the role of local and regional authorities in making projects like this a reality? How important is it to support local and regional authorities to implement such projects, including at the EU level, either through funding or exchange of best practices?
The project demonstrates the importance of strong cooperation between local authorities and European partners. While local leadership ensures that investments address the city's specific needs, EU support—through a €50 million European Investment Bank (EIB) loan—provides the long-term financing needed to deliver them. At the same time, cooperation with European institutions helps implement modern technologies and high environmental standards, ensuring sustainable and future-ready infrastructure.
