Lithuania launches state‑funded drainage reconstruction in six municipalities

More than €1 million in state funding has been allocated to upgrade drainage (melioration) infrastructure in six Lithuanian districts – Kėdainiai, Klaipėda, Kaunas, Plungė, Trakai and Panevėžys. The projects have entered the practical implementation stage, with design work and public procurement procedures already underway.

The works aim to restore non‑functioning or poorly operating drainage structures, reduce excess soil moisture and improve conditions for agricultural land. The total value of the schemes is about €1.21 million, including €1.08 million from the state budget; municipalities have already received €651,700 in advance payments. Planned renovations cover 15.787 km of drainage lines, 11.822 km of ditches, 16 culverts, 76 water outlets, 141 weirs and one well.

According to Reda Bankauskaitė, head of the Agricultural Data Center’s Melioration Department, “the projects are moving from documentation to practical preparation, with municipalities beginning procurement and design to ensure funds are used as intended.” The contracts must be completed within 18 months, with final accountability required by 30 November 2027.

The Agricultural Data Center (ŽŪDC) monitors compliance with timelines, financing conditions and reporting procedures to guarantee that the work proceeds toward fully renewed drainage infrastructure.