China - Ningbo Water Management Project

Page 1 PROJECT INFORMATION DOCUMENT (PID) CONCEPT STAGE Report No.: AB1022 Project Name CN-Ningbo Water Management Project Region EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC Sector Water supply (50%);Sewerage (50%) Project ID P086505 Borrower(s) NINGBO MUNICIPALITY Implementing Agency Environment Category [X] A [ ] B [ ] C [ ] FI [ ] TBD (to be determined) Safeguard Classification [ ] S 1 [ ] S 2 [ ] S 3 [ ] S F [ ] TBD (to be determined) Date PID Prepared July 12, 2004 Estimated Date of Appraisal Authorization December 8, 2004 Estimated Date of Board Approval May 13, 2005 1. Key development issues and rationale for Bank involvement Ningbo, like many cities throughout China, is facing a two dimensional water crisis : frequent shortages and poor quality. Although situated in a generally temperate climate, water supply development in Ningbo has lagged behind its rapid economic growth. Water companies draw water primarily from highly polluted local surface water sources and use outdated treatment technology, rendering the piped water of questionable quality. Water supply deficiencies pose a drag on economic growth and endanger public health. Ningbo has taken the initiative to address water issues through a regional approach with establishment of a multi-sector