Serbia’s first public–private partnership (PPP) project in the water sector, delivered by Metito Utilities, has successfully achieved full compliance with national standards, prompting authorities to officially lift the long-standing ban on the use of tap water for drinking

Zrenjanin Water Treatment PPP Project, developed by Metito Utilities, a global investor, developer, and operator of sustainable water management solutions, and awarded by The City of Zrenjanin (The City) and the public water utility company “Vodovod i kanalizacija” (PUC) has successfully restored safe drinking water supply for Zrenjanin.

The announcement was made by Simo Salapura, Mayor of Zrenjanin, following confirmation from Serbia’s sanitary authorities that the city’s water now meets all stringent national quality and health standards. This validation has formally lifted the 2004 ban on the use of municipal tap water for drinking – resolving one of the country’s longest-standing challenges.

Zrenjanin Water Treatment PPP Project provides a reliable and continuous supply of potable water for more than 70,000 residents, ensuring long-term water security. Since the project inception, Metito Utilities has led the upgrading and expansion of the facility, introducing advanced treatment technologies, automation systems, and high-efficiency equipment to optimize operations and ensure a high-quality water supply

With a total investment of approximately €20 million, the project represents the country’s first PPP project in the water sector and stands as one of the region’s most significant infrastructure achievements. Through the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, the project has delivered a tailored, sustainable, and bankable model for addressing municipal water challenges through effective public–private sector collaboration.

The project construction, commissioning & trial phase achieved over 85,000 safe man-hours with zero LTIs, created local employment opportunities, and advanced sustainability by recovering resources and promoting valuable knowledge transfer and skill development within the community. These achievements directly support several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Under the long-term agreement, Metito Utilities will continue to operate and maintain the plant to ensure uninterrupted, high-quality water production. The company currently has two active projects in Serbia, representing a planned investment of over €57 million, reaffirming its long-term commitment to advancing sustainable water infrastructure in the Republic of Serbia.