The governments of the United States and Mongolia have officially transferred 180 automated water kiosks to the Ulaanbaatar Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (USUG). These kiosks, located in Ulaanbaatar’s ger districts, are part of the $462 million Mongolia Water Compact’s Water Sector Sustainability Project.
A handover ceremony was held at Smart Water Kiosk No. 207 in Khoroo 2, Songinokhairkhan District. The event was attended by U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia Richard Buangan, Head of the Mongolia–US Parliamentary group Kh.Gankhuyag, Member of Parliament D.Tsogtbaatar, as well as representatives from Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), USUG, Millennium Challenge Account-Mongolia (MCA-M), and other stakeholders.
Since its launch in January 2023, the Ger Area Smart Water Kiosk Upgrade Project has modernized 180 kiosks across 61 khoroos in six districts. Upgrades included improvements to electrical systems, piping, painting, and software integration. As a result of these enhancements, a total of 331 kiosks now operate with an integrated digital system that expands reliable access to clean water for residents.
With these upgrades, residents in ger areas can collect water around the clock and pay using cards or mobile apps while tracking their usage digitally. Additionally, 21 truck-refilling kiosks have been automated so fire and water delivery trucks can access water at any time—an important development for emergency response services.
At the ceremony, U.S. Ambassador Richard Buangan stated: “Water is our future—not only for the health of Ulaanbaatar’s residents, but also for the vitality of Mongolia’s economy. Access to safe, reliable water is essential for every family—and it also drives investment. By ensuring Ulaanbaatar residents can depend on clean water, we are strengthening the city’s foundation for private sector growth and long-term economic opportunity.”
The project aims to reduce USUG's operating costs by fully automating pipe-fed kiosks while supporting a sustainable urban water supply system capable of meeting growing demand.
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is described as an independent U.S. government agency that advances America’s economic and strategic interests through results-driven foreign assistance focused on infrastructure development and economic modernization.
For further information about this initiative or related activities in Mongolia contact paspress@usembassy.mn or call +976 7007-6001.