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The President of the Administración Nacional de Acueductos y Alcantarillados (ANDA), Jorge Castañeda, announced that the government of El Salvador will invest US$40 million in a cooperation project with the government of China, aimed at improving water infrastructure in the area of Lake Ilopango. This investment is part of a series of efforts to improve potable water services in vulnerable regions of the country, highlighting the importance of international ties for El Salvador’s development.
Castañeda detailed that, within the framework of this project, a decree has been implemented that exonerated a total of 900 families from outstanding balances with the autonomous agency. This decree, he explained, allowed the elimination of late payment surcharges and accumulated interest, especially in areas besieged by gangs, which have historically faced serious difficulties in meeting their obligations. The measure, which was in effect until december 30, 2024, was designed to alleviate the economic burden of the most vulnerable sectors.
The benefit was not only extended to families, but also favored legal entities, individuals and even State institutions. According to Castañeda, a total of 1,923 families and entities benefited from the cancellation of arrears and interest, which represents a significant relief in their outstanding payments. Although a loss of income was generated by ANDA, the head of ANDA emphasized that this measure was fundamental to improve the financial situation of thousands of salvadorans.
With respect to the revenues generated by the decree, Castañeda indicated that the entity received approximately US$800,000 in payments during the effective period. At the same time, he confirmed that close to US$1.8 million in delinquent interest and default charges were eliminated, which represents a significant improvement for families who otherwise would have faced an even greater unpaid debt.
The ANDA President concluded with a positive assessment of the impact of the measure, stressing that, although the waiver of interest and surcharges meant a reduction in the institution’s revenues, the main objective was to provide a respite to the neediest sectors and contribute to the general welfare.
