The Bakhvi HPP project is now in its final phase. Since 2021, many have closely followed its development. The success story that the project team has built is noteworthy and worth sharing. Throughout the project\u2019s implementation, there were many challenges\u2014and many victories.<\/p>\n
We present an interview with the Director of Bakhvi HPP, Giorgi Abramishvili.<\/p>\n
Mr. Giorgi, when you look back at the beginning of the project, what was the biggest challenge in turning an idea into reality?<\/p>\n
Four years ago, we made a promise to the local communities that we would build a hydropower plant of the highest standards. High standards mean respect for nature and people, care, and responsibility. Today, as we reach the final stage of implementation, I can confidently say that we have delivered on our promise. Every major project begins with challenges\u2014ours did as well. These challenges make the project interesting. We managed to turn every challenge into a success. The development of Bakhvi HPP is truly an example of success in the modern history of hydropower construction.\nThis project is implemented with a large and diverse team. We have people from local villages, from different regions of Georgia, and international experts from various countries. Together, we are building a hydropower plant that, I am certain, will soon make all of us proud. Naturally, there were disagreements, discussions, and many meetings. Do you know what the key is to earning people\u2019s trust? Transparency, the culture of listening, sharing, and ultimately - delivering on promises.<\/p>\n
You frequently speak about the commitments made to the local community. How did you ensure these commitments were fulfilled?<\/strong><\/p>\n We listened carefully and understood all the concerns residents had. At every stage, we ensured transparent communication and kept the community informed about project developments. At the same time, we began working on raising awareness. Once the community saw that we were transparent, we listened, we shared \u2014 the first positive feedback began to emerge.\nThe first step was the establishment of the Advisory Council, which brought together local opinion leaders and community representatives interested in the project and its future. Together with them, we developed a comprehensive social program. The program was based both on the Council\u2019s recommendations and the findings of the needs assessment we conducted in the villages surrounding the project area.\nThe program included several key directions:\n\u2022\tEducation \u2014 support for kindergartens, schools, and higher education\n\u2022\tAwareness & professional orientation\n\u2022\tInfrastructure projects \u2014 energy-efficient street lighting in Bakhmaro, water system upgrades in Vaniskedi, road rehabilitation, and bridge construction\n\u2022\tSmall business support \u2014 assistance to the Gurian Tea Route and strengthening the hospitality sector for tourism development\n\u2022\tSupport for persons with disabilities\nEmployment was also an essential component, and we successfully delivered on this as well. We implemented a fair employment policy. In addition to direct employment, we established a \u201cthird-party employment model,\u201d meaning that whenever services or goods were procured, local businesses were given priority.<\/p>\n Now that the Bakhvi HPP project is practically at its final construction stage, what does this project mean for Guria and for Georgia?<\/strong><\/p>\n I believe the project has succeeded, and it demonstrates how responsible business operates. In this project, every stakeholder is a winner\u2014both the developers and the interested groups. For us, this project is more than a hydropower plant; it is a story about human connections.<\/p>\n These human stories became the inspiration for creating a series of video features that showcase how projects are built here - and that care is the driving force behind all we do. Today, I am pleased to present the first feature, which reviews the educational program, its participants, and the results achieved.<\/p>\n Video link: <\/strong><\/p>\n