Moldovan economics ministry says Ungheni-Chisinau gas pipeline ready at level of 90 per cent

Chisinau, 28 April /MOLDPRES/ - Economics and Infrastructure Minister Sergiu Railean today inspected several segments of construction site of the Iasi-Ungheni-Chisinau gas pipeline, as well as the administrative complex Vestmoldtransgaz from Ghidighici – the company which carries out the project. The company’s leadership informed that the gas pipeline was ready at the level of about 90 per cent.   

According to the Economics and Infrastructure Ministry’s (MEI) press service, the minister collected facts about the implementation of the investment project, Construction of the Ungheni-Chisinau gas pipeline, and the difficulties in the context of the restrictions imposed by the emergency state. Sergiu Railean also showed interest in the activity of the workers and observance of the protection rules, provided for in the protocol.   

„It is in our interest to ensure the energy security of the country, as well as of the region, through the diversification of the routes of supply of natural gas. Therefore, through interconnection with the transport networks from Romania and Moldova’s integration into the European energy system, we will achieve this goal. We closely monitor the progress of this strategic project, in order to ensure the finality in the terms established and benefit from the pipeline till the end of this year,’’ the minister said.  

For his part, the manager of Vestmoldtransgaz, Iulian Butnaru, said that the works were carried out according to the terms planned. ‘’As much as 106 km out of 120 km of linear pipeline segment have been already completed. The company’s administrative office, which will monitor the system, is almost prepared for the putting into operation,’’ Butnaru noted. According to him, 130-150 workers, who ensure the continuation of the works on the pipeline, daily carry out their activity.     

Since early 2019 so far, works have been carried out on all the seven segments related to the construction. The term announced by the investor as to the finishing of the works and putting the gas pipeline into operation is the second half of 2020. The estimated value of the project is of 76 million euros.