"Raicommerce Construction completed the modernization of the water supply and sewerage network in Smolyan.”
Raicommerce Construction JSC successfully completed one of the key infrastructure projects for the city of Smolyan – 'Engineering, Design, Construction, and Author’s Supervision of the Project: Reconstruction and Completion of the Internal Sewerage and Water Supply Network of Smolyan,' under the terms of the FIDIC Yellow Book.
The project included the reconstruction and modernization of nearly 6 km of the existing water supply network, as well as the construction of almost 7 km of new pipelines. The pipes are made of high-density polyethylene with diameters ranging from ø75 to ø315, designed to withstand high pressures (up to PN15 bar), ensuring their durability and reliability. Additionally, more than 450 building water connections were constructed, with the water supply passing under a river in some places, requiring the application of special engineering solutions and innovative technologies.
The total length of the newly constructed, reconstructed, and rehabilitated sewerage network exceeds 15 km. Of these, 8 km are newly built, 7 km are reconstructed, and over 1,000 meters are rehabilitated using the CIPP (Cured In Place Pipe) method – a trenchless technique for pipeline rehabilitation. This method is used for gravity pipelines made from any material and with all possible geometric profiles. The lining is a flexible tube made of glass fibers, factory-impregnated with polyester resins. After being pulled into the rehabilitation section, it is inflated with air at a specific pressure to take its final shape. Curing is achieved using UV light by pulling a chain of UV lamps at a constant speed. The rehabilitated section can be put into operation immediately after the process is completed.
The sewerage network was constructed at a depth of up to 7 meters, with two crossings completed – one under the bed of the Cherna River and one bridge-canal over the Byala River. Over 400 building sewer connections were constructed and reconstructed. Many of the existing connections, which previously discharged directly into the ditches, are now connected to the newly built sewerage system, leading to a significant improvement in the ecological balance and contributing to the preservation of natural resources in the region.
Despite the challenges of the terrain, such as narrow streets and difficult rocky sections, the project was completed with high quality, utilizing innovative technologies and solutions, as well as highly specialized equipment. Not only were the current infrastructure obstacles overcome, but a suitable infrastructure foundation was also created for the development of future projects in the region. The completion of this important phase significantly improves wastewater management and ensures long-term environmental protection, contributing to the city's sustainable development and a better quality of life for its residents.
