Râșcani dam rebuilt after 50 years with EU support: 2.9M lei invested
The dam of the Râșcani reservoir has been rebuilt for the first time in over 50 years, thanks to support from the European Union. This 2.9 million lei investment reduces the risk of flooding and enhances safety for hundreds of households. The inauguration event featured a fishing competition organized for local residents.
The project “EU4Moldova Resilient: Secure State, Strong Communities,” implemented by the Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, oversaw the necessary work on the dam.
Originally built in 1971, the dam had fallen into significant disrepair and had never undergone a complete renovation. Over a span of seven months, the lock and evacuation systems were modernized, and the concrete structure was reinforced and cleaned, reads a press release from EU4Moldova.
“This dam has been a source of concern for local authorities and residents for years. Now, this hydraulic infrastructure is not only functional but also adds beauty to our city,” said Denis Țurcanu, deputy mayor of Râșcani.
“The reconstruction of the Rîșcani dam brings long-term benefits to the entire community. It enhances the safety of the population by reducing the risk of floods that could affect homes, roads, and agricultural land,” stated Tomasz Horbowski, Country Director of Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova.
The reconstruction of the Rîșcani dam is one of five urban revitalization projects funded by the European Union in Moldova. Similar work has also been carried out in Nisporeni, Ceadâr-Lunga, Cimișlia, and Hâncești.
“The Rîșcani dam is part of a broader effort by the European Union to support Moldovan cities in becoming safer and more resilient. Whether we focus on hydrotechnical infrastructure, modernized public spaces, or urban revitalization initiatives, all these investments share a common goal: to improve people’s lives and protect local communities,” said Iwona Piórko, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova.
The total budget for the renovation of the Râșcani dam is 2.9 million lei, of which 2.6 million lei represents the contribution of the European Union and almost 300 thousand lei - the contribution of local authorities.
