In 2022, the management of the settlement applied for a TOP Plus grant in the Livable settlements category for the development of the Székkutas sewer network.
Additional resources were needed
– The decision was made that year that we won HUF 150 million for the development of the Székutas internal and stormwater drainage system. The authorization and construction plans were completed by August 2023, by which time we also had the official permit. By the end of the year, we also selected the contractor. However, the work could not start because the funds received have so far proved to be insufficient, Emese Szabó said at the project opening event. He’s a couch potato new mayor. The settlement needed additional funds, which was approved by the tender’s governing authority in July this year, so a total of gross HUF 168 million 650 thousand 812 is available to Székkutas for the implementation of the project.
The sewer network must be renovated
The investment affects Mágocsi Street, the area behind the houses on the border of the settlement and the area next to Németh László Street, totaling more than one kilometer in length. Renovation of the internal water and rainwater drainage system became necessary because in recent years they have been washed away, eroded and green vegetation has settled in the ditches. As a result, the water-carrying capacity of the subterranean canals has significantly deteriorated.
It will be ready by the end of the year
As the first step of the investment, the contractors cleaned an existing channel. The works have already started, on Mágocsi út, at the border of the settlement, the development is currently taking place with a half-lane road closure, traffic is controlled by a traffic light. It was announced at the project opening event that the channel beds will be paved over a 1,365-meter section, of which the length of the open leaky element channels is 690 meters, and the length of the open paved channels is 675 meters.
During the development, care is also taken to retain water. About half of the concrete elements lining the sewers have holes at the bottom through which water can seep into the ground. A 30-centimeter-thick graded gravel bed was also built under the bed elements, which means additional reservoir volume. It does not allow the water to drain immediately, but allows leakage, so they are still trying to increase the extremely low groundwater level. The investment is planned to be completed by the end of the year.
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2024-10-31 08:25:00
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Sewer Network Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our discussion today! We have with us an expert in urban infrastructure and environmental engineering, Dr. Alex Kovács. Thanks for joining us, Dr. Kovács!
Dr. Alex Kovács: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the exciting developments happening in Székkutas.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Székkutas recently secured a grant of over HUF 150 million for the improvement of its sewer network. How significant is this investment for the community?
Dr. Kovács: This investment is crucial for the residents of Székkutas. A modern and efficient sewer system is essential for ensuring public health and protecting the environment. The previous system was clearly struggling, with issues such as erosion and vegetation growth hampering its functionality.
Editor: You mentioned the problems with the old system. Can you elaborate on what specific issues existed with the internal and stormwater drainage system?
Dr. Kovács: Certainly. Over time, the internal drainage systems can become significantly compromised due to environmental factors like erosion, sediment build-up, and vegetation interference. In Székkutas, these issues have reduced the water-carrying capacity of the system, leading to potential flooding and contamination risks. This renovation is necessary not just for efficiency but for safeguarding the groundwater and local ecosystems.
Editor: The project is set to affect areas like Mágocsi Street and Németh László Street. What are the anticipated benefits for residents living in these areas?
Dr. Kovács: Once completed, the renovation will not only improve water drainage but also enhance overall quality of life. Residents can expect fewer instances of localized flooding during heavy rainfall, which often leads to property damage. Additionally, a more efficient drainage system will contribute to better public health outcomes, as it reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.
Editor: There was a delay in starting the construction due to funding issues. Can you share how often financial challenges impact similar infrastructure projects?
Dr. Kovács: Unfortunately, funding delays are all too common in infrastructure projects, especially in smaller settlements. Budgets can be tight, and additional funding often requires approval from governing authorities, which can slow down progress. It’s crucial for local governments to plan for these scenarios and secure financial resources upfront to avoid interruptions.
Editor: Looking ahead, what’s next for the Székkutas sewer network project?
Dr. Kovács: The initial cleaning of the existing channels is already underway, which is a positive start. If all goes according to plan, we can expect the entire renovation to be completed by the end of the year. This will significantly improve the operational capacity of the network and lay a solid foundation for future infrastructure developments.
Editor: It sounds like an exciting time for Székkutas! Lastly, what advice would you give to other municipalities facing similar infrastructure challenges?
Dr. Kovács: I would advise them to prioritize infrastructure assessments and seek comprehensive funding strategies early on. Engaging with the community and ensuring transparency about the project’s impact can also build support and cooperation. Ultimately, investing in infrastructure is investing in the community’s future.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kovács! Your insights are invaluable, and I’m sure our readers will appreciate this deep dive into the challenges and opportunities of urban infrastructure in Székkutas.
Dr. Kovács: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital topic.