Interview with Bakhvi HPP Director, Giorgi Abramishvili
Greetings, Mr. Abramishvili. How is the project progressing, and how close is it to achieving its goals?
Greetings, and thank you for your interest. We are constructing this hydropower plant in collaboration with the local population, thereby contributing to the development of the renewable energy sector. I believe this is something that we can all be proud of, both personally and collectively, for everyone involved directly or indirectly in this project.
You mentioned building the Bakvi Hydropower Plant with the local community. Does this mean that locals are employed in the construction?
Yes, that is exactly what it means. We are working together on the construction of the Bakvi Hydropower Plant. Half of the semi-skilled and unskilled employees involved in the project are residents of nearby villages, mainly from the communities of Mtispiri, Oqroskedi, Vaniskedi, and Ukanava. Both men and women are part of this workforce; men are working on the construction site, while women contribute in the construction camp. I would also like to expand on this point by mentioning that the project has many supporters who, although not directly involved in the process, follow and care deeply about its progress and development. These include young people, persons with disabilities and their families, representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, the media, NGOs, schools, kindergartens, and residents of the surrounding villages. These individuals have benefited from our educational, infrastructural, and economic social programs. Through three years of communication, we have demonstrated the integrity of our intentions and the high standards of our work. As a result, these communities are actively engaged in the process because our approach is rooted in transparency and inclusiveness. That’s why I am confident that they are just as interested in how the project will evolve and the outcomes we will achieve. I’d like to especially highlight the members of our advisory council, who are particularly invested in ensuring the hydropower plant adheres to the highest standards. They have been involved in the project selflessly since day one, always working for the benefit of their region.
The construction site seems to be a key area of interest. The Bakvistskali River valley, where the construction is taking place, is relatively remote from populated areas. What can you tell us about the activities there and how the site looks?
I understand that public interest is high, which is why we launched a major and exciting video project this summer. We filmed our employees, whose work is critical to the realization of this project, showcasing their work environment. In these videos, we interviewed builders, electrical engineers, the technical director, as well as managers responsible for construction, safety, environmental protection, social issues, and public relations. They share detailed insights into their daily routines and explain the standards by which each task is executed. Our operations are diverse and highly interesting because everything is done according to the highest standards, giving us a strong sense of pride. This is the essence captured in these videos, which will be released in September through media channels and on social networks such as Facebook. I believe this material will satisfy the curiosity of many and introduce the professionals who are wholeheartedly committed to ensuring the project's success with the highest standards. This is why I always say we are building a project to be proud of—together.