Ukraine: Tackling humanitarian crisis in South

Comprehensive support to Mykolaiv city recovery

Mykolaiv was one of the cities most affected by shelling and power cuts during the Russian Federation military offensive that began over two years ago. The constant bombardment, widespread destruction, and lack of drinking water forced half of the city's 600,000 residents to seek safety in other regions of Ukraine or abroad. After Ukrainian forces regained control over Kherson city in the Autumn of 2022, the frontline moved further east, leading to a reduction in the attacks on Mykolaiv and accelerating the city’s recovery.

In 2023, following massive shipments of construction materials, DRC focused on supporting Mykolaiv’s water supply, sanitation and heating systems.

Water supply and sanitation

Previously, Mykolaiv Oblast sourced its water from the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast. The destruction of this pipe forced authorities to seek alternative sources from the Ingul and Pivdennyi Buh rivers, which are closer to the sea. The saltwater from these sources caused significant damage to the central water system, eroding old cast iron pipes and pumps.

To address this, DRC provided the municipality with kilometres of new pipes and dozens of water pumps, restoring regular access to water for entire districts.

Water treatment plants

Mykolaiv's water supply still uses technical water unsuitable for drinking. Over 50 treatment plants were installed across the city, many in kindergartens and schools to resolve this. These plants provide water to children and residents. Victoria, director of a kindergarten with an installed treatment system, noted, “Our kindergarten did not work at all before the installation of the treatment plant. Now we have more than 200 children enrolled, which has greatly relieved parents who can find full-day jobs now.”

However, these systems only work when there is electricity. Due to the massive shelling of Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Mykolaiv often faces power outages. Still, the institution has a large tank with drinking water to avoid interruptions in the educational process.

Improving the city's heating system

Sudden power outages and surges have also worn out the pumps used for heating. To prepare for the new heating season, DRC provided dozens of network pumps to be installed in major boiler houses and central heating stations. These improvements will ensure an efficient heat supply and prevent possible emergencies due to voltage drops.

“The heat supply equipment needs to be updated. Thanks to DRC's assistance, many boiler houses will be able to supply heat more efficiently, preventing possible emergencies,” said Oleksandr Shundel, Chief Power Engineer of Mykolaivoblteploenergo, the utility service responsible for heating.

Mitigating dire straits after the Kakhovka Dam burst

The destruction of the Kakhovka Dam on June 6, 2023, led to catastrophic flooding, submerging homes and devastating infrastructure in Kherson and Mykolaiv Oblasts. In response, DRC, funded by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided crucial assistance.

The Cash for Repairs initiative offered cash grants of 18,500 UAH (around $500) per household, aiding 850 households. This support enabled many to start rebuilding their homes. The programme accommodated in-person and phone registrations to adapt to the escalating shelling in Kherson.

Also, DRC’s partner the Civil Society Organization (CSO) City of Power led a comprehensive house cleaning operation, clearing over 17,000 tons of polluted water and almost 1,000 tons of solid debris from 459 properties, aiding more than 7,300 residents. Moreover, CSO Angels of Salvation distributed kits with essentials to over 1,200 individuals in Mykolaiv Oblast.

One of the most significant outcomes was the sense of hope and gradual return to normalcy for the beneficiaries. While only 20% of respondents had returned to their homes, many reported significant improvements in their living conditions, with 11% highlighting substantial enhancements thanks to the assistance.

Through these concerted efforts, DRC and its partners not only delivered immediate relief but also laid the groundwork for long-term recovery.